5 Ways to Create a New Habit

Creating a new habit can sometimes seem like a daunting task. Even with the best of intentions, old habits just seem to get in the way. Good intentions need great actions in order to get results. There are some basic strategies that will help you get started and keep on track with your new habit. Before you know it, you’ll be amazed and pleased at your progress.

Try these five ways to create a new habit:

1. Focus on one thing.

One of the reasons why people have difficulty creating new habits is that they try to change too many things all at once. Choose one thing to focus on. When you have that habit off to a good start, then you can add something else.

2. Be consistent.

Habits are things that we do consistently on a regular basis. They are part of our usual routine. So to create a new habit, you must be consistent in your efforts. The hit or miss on and off again approach will not get you where you want to be. You will build greater momentum with things that you do on a daily basis, rather than those you only do a couple of times a week. While you are building a new habit, be consistent in recommitting to it each day.

3. Find an accountability partner.

Most people do better when they have someone who both cheers them on and holds them accountable for their actions. Find someone who is willing to partner with you while you create your new habit. Decide what you need to keep on track. Then be specific about what you want them to do. Ask if they would join you for workouts, or be available to call when you are procrastinating, or exchange emails every day to check in, or meet for coffee to celebrate your success each week. Remember that your significant other may not be your best accountability partner. Choose someone who has the time and motivation to help you succeed.

4. Create a visual reminder.

It’s easy to let your focus slip when it is not up front and center. Create some type of visual reminder that helps hold your attention. It might be a calendar on which you record your progress, a photo that captures your vision, post-it note messages, or a statement of affirmation. Display your visual reminder somewhere prominent – on your fridge, your desk, your bathroom mirror. This not only acts as a consistent reminder but also helps to hold you accountable with others.

5. Cut yourself some slack.

Rome wasn’t built in a day and new habits take time to become habits. In order to integrate a new routine into your life, you will need at least 30 days and often longer depending on the type of change you’re making. It’s not about breaking an old habit. It’s about creating a new one. Be reasonable about how long it will take for your new habit to become second nature. Along the way, it’s likely that you will back slide a bit, so cut yourself some slack. Just remember that it’s okay to slip as long as you get right back up. Set your expectations up for success, not failure.

The greater your success in applying positive habits the easier it will be to decide what are good personal habits to have.

Laurel Vespi, certified life coach 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 Stone Circle Coaching