Old habits die hard

back

There was a point during the past couple of months when, if you listened carefully, you could hear a collective groan from Albertans making a telephone call. That's because they were hearing - once again - a recorded message reminding them to include the area code when dialing. For two months, in preparation for mandatory 10 digit dialing, people received a message that gave a polite reminder that soon calls would not proceed without the area code.

A great technique

Annoying as it was at some times, it was a great technique to get a mass of people to create a new habit. Dialing a telephone number is one of those things that you don't have to think too hard about, especially the numbers that you know by heart. Punching 7 digits was a habit, just like brushing your teeth. Switching habits to dialing 10 digits requires a little time and consistency.

In the beginning not many people remembered to use the area code. We all were listening to the recorded message on a regular basis. Little by little though, we began to catch ourselves before we dialed. I started asking people, "How often are you dialing 10 digits?" Slowly over the two months the percentage increased so that just before 10 digit dialing became mandatory, most people were doing it most of the time.

How many times have you wanted to create a new habit and it fell by the wayside?

While you need good intentions to create a new habit, you also need focus and consistency to translate intention into action. That's why the 10 digit dialing campaign was so successful. Everyone was focusing on changing one habit and there was the consistent support of the recorded message to hold everyone accountable. And you also knew that everyone across the province was having a shared experience.

I'll bet if you had a little recorded message that played with a gentle reminder each time you engaged in an old habit you are trying to change, you'd have far greater success.

One simple thing

There's probably at least one simple thing that if you did it consistently, it would increase your happiness or health. Creating new habits doesn't have to be as hard as it might seem. With the right strategies and techniques, you can set yourself up for success. And if you find yourself needing a little extra support, you can always give me a call. Just remember to dial the area code.

Five Ways to Create a New Habit

Laurel Vespi, certified life coach, award winning author and chief executive guru of stone circle coaching, ignites businesses & individuals to new levels of CHANGE. Laurel works with clients internationally, providing unconventional yet practical tips that make the seemingly impossible... possible! Sign up for Laurel's free ezine and get a free guidebook to blissful living at www.stonecirclecoaching.com