When talking about habits we’re not often thinking about breaking existing habit. Yet probably everyone has at least one habit dragging him or her down in one way or another. Tricky part is that this habit could be so built into your life that you don’t even recognize it.
Start off by reviewing your habits. On the surface you’ll find habits which you’ve consciously embedded into your life. Then take a closer look at habits you have for years subconsciously. Assess how they align with your areas of responsibility and goals. Do you see any habit having a negative impact on your future? Then how about removing such habit from your life?
Here are several strategies that can help you to ditch old habit:
- Choose right time for breaking old habit. There is definitely something enjoyable for you in that old habit. Otherwise you wouldn’t carry it for a long time. It should be simpler to kick-off when you have strong positive vibe in your life. You could start breaking old habit at the same time when you have some other greater changes in your life (e.g. moving to new apartment, starting new job or promotion at current job, start of your favorite season of the year, etc.). Also be aware that breaking old habit probably will take twice as long as installing a new habit. So look not only at good starting time, but also what you expect happing in your life along the way.
- Replace old habit with the new one. This could be some new habit you wanted to have. Alternatively this could a different angle at your existing unwanted habit. For example, you could substitute extra cup of coffee with a glass of water or mindless video browsing with useful educational videos.
- Use incremental approach. This way you get rid of the habit slowly. One bit at a time. Currently I’m eliminating a habit to eat sweet snacks in the evenings. I started by substituting sweet snack with something neutral (like nuts, cheese, or yoghourt). I’m doing well with this for last couple of months. I believe I’m ready for next step which is removing this late snack completely.
- Understand triggers and avoid them. Take a look what leads you to engage with the habit. This could be emotional state, location, or person. Once you figure this out, take proactive steps to avoid those triggers.
- Create a supportive environment and use external support. When you find it extremely difficult to drop old habit, ask your close ones to help or find a group with same problem who support each other in the journey of quitting.
- Embrace setbacks. An old habit has a deep roots in your daily routing and lifestyle. So don’t be harsh on yourself when things go wrong. Actually I doubt quitting old habit can go smoothly. Instead of beating yourself up, just analyze what went wrong and how you can improve.
Breaking old habits usually is challenging, but with the mindful approach and persistence, it is definitely possible. The decision to break an old habit depends on your personal situation and goals. Remember, that breaking old habits takes time and effort. Stay committed and be patient.