How to Follow Through with a New Habit

Positive intentions are great and important – but sticking to a new habit can be a major challenge! Here are some tips that will make it easier to follow through.

Understand your current habits. Have you ever arrived home, not really remembering the drive there? That’s because the streets and landmarks acted as cues that prompted you to take action – turn here, go straight there. You’ve done it so many times you don’t really have to think about it. Habits are the same way. You remember to brush your teeth every day because you’re used to doing it first thing after your alarm goes off. Don’t try to fight your current routine – incorporate new habits as seamlessly as possible into your daily schedule. For example, if you want to start bringing your lunch to the office instead of buying it, because mornings are rushed for you, pack it the night before.

Trial period. Tell yourself you’re going to stick with it for a period of time – maybe a few weeks. At the end of that, you can decide whether you want keep the habit up for the long-term. It’s psychologically easier to get started if you know it doesn’t have to be forever. By the end of the trial period, the habit will probably start to feel like part of your routine.

Pep talks. Remember that adopting the new habit is ultimately a form of self-care. If you start resenting it, you might eventually abandon it. Congratulate yourself anytime you make progress – even if it’s only a tiny step forward. Remind yourself why you’re doing this in the first place.

Do it regularly. If your goal is to improve your diet, eat something healthy every day. This doesn’t mean that every meal has to be perfectly nutritious. And it doesn’t mean you need to give up any particular foods. Just add a salad or a green smoothie to your regular routine to begin. Start small – but keep with it.

-Sarah Cooke