Embrace a Fresh Start: New Year, New Habit!

I know some of us get tired of hearing about “New Year’s Resolutions” because it feels fake and somewhat annoying. One starts to wonder, if you have not already done something, why would you totally change your behavior and do it now just because it’s a new year? However, for some, the start of a new year does offer a chance to “start afresh” or “embrace a new path” that we were not able to embrace before, solely because it’s a new year. If anything, a new year offers a chance to challenge yourself in a way that maybe you needed a clean slate to take on the challenge. One powerful and transformative resolution is breaking free from a bad habit that may be hindering personal growth and well-being.

To share some personal achievements on day eight of the new year, here are a few of my own intentions. For the last 30 years or so, I have tried breaking a bad habit of picking at my nails, not necessarily on New Year’s just in general. This year for whatever reason, now that it’s a new year, I kicked that habit! Let’s hope it sticks. Other new habits, I started cold plunging regularly, taking more supplements that fit my personal health needs and prioritizing sleep. My “2024 word” is FREEDOM. Not my own freedom, but letting go of trying to run the lives of others and embracing everybody’s right to freedom. So far, it’s been very freeing lol.

I have some business goals as well that I hope to accomplish this year but we’ll save those for later. For me, a new year offers a chance to regroup, get organized, and game plan. Let’s talk about habits and replacement behaviors. One thing to be aware of as you look at making changes is that it’s easier to replace a behavior with something different than to just plain “stop” doing something.

Habits play a significant role in shaping our lives. From the moment we wake up to the time we go to bed, our daily routines are often guided by ingrained habits. Some of our habits are destructive while some are helpful.
* Identifying the Habit: The first step in making a positive change is identifying the habit you wish to break. It could be anything from procrastination and excessive screen time to unhealthy eating habits or negative self-talk. Reflect on your daily routine and pinpoint the habit that you believe is holding you back from becoming the best version of yourself.

* Understanding Triggers and Rewards:  To successfully break a habit, it’s essential to understand the triggers that lead to the behavior and the rewards associated with it. Habits are often formed as a response to certain cues or triggers, and they provide a sense of reward or satisfaction. By identifying these components, you can work towards finding healthier alternatives that fulfill the same needs.

* Setting Realistic Goals:  Once you’ve identified the habit and understood its triggers and rewards, it’s time to set realistic and achievable goals. Break down the process into smaller, manageable steps. Instead of trying to eliminate the habit, focus on gradually reducing its frequency or replacing it with a positive behavior.

* Building a Support System:  Breaking a habit is seldom an easy task, and having a support system can make a world of difference. Share your resolution with friends or family members who can provide encouragement and understanding, and perhaps even join you on the journey to positive change. This one is HUGE for me. I dislike being flaky and if I tell someone I’m going to do something then it helps my follow through. Each morning, before I cold plunge I tell my husband I’m going to do it. Then I know I really have to do it and can’t chicken out because if he asks me about it there is NO WAY I’m saying I didn’t follow through. I am not disappointing him; but most importantly I am not disappointing myself.

* Cultivating Positive Habits:  Breaking a bad habit is not just about elimination; it’s also an opportunity to cultivate positive habits. Replace the old habit with a new, constructive behavior that aligns with your goals. For example, if you’re cutting down on screen time, consider taking up a new hobby, reading, or spending more time outdoors. As mentioned above, it’s easier to replace a behavior than just plain stop doing something. For example, if I want to drink less alcohol less frequently then when I go to grab a glass of wine, it’s going to be easier to grab a soda water than to just “grab” or drink nothing because I’m used to that “drink something” routine.

Embracing a fresh start in the new year by breaking a bad habit is a powerful commitment to personal growth and well-being. As you embark on this journey, celebrate your successes, and realize that you are making progress just by setting intentions for yourself and understanding the need for change. Be proud of yourself for your self-awareness and give yourself grace! Cheers to a healthier, happier, and more fulfilling year ahead!