7 Things Not To Do When Building a New Habit

Forming a new habit can be challenging, but it's an essential step towards achieving your goals and living a healthier, happier life. Whether you want to start exercising regularly, meditating, or reading more, building a new habit requires dedication, commitment, and consistency. However, many people make mistakes when trying to establish a new habit, which can sabotage their efforts and make it harder to succeed. In this article, we'll explore seven things not to do when building a new habit and provide tips on how to overcome them.

1. Don't Start Too Big

2. Don't Rely On Motivation Alone

3. Don't Give Up Too Soon

4. Don't Be Too Hard On Yourself

5. Don't Ignore Your Triggers

6. Don't Keep Doing Something You Don't Enjoy

7. Don't Expect Perfection

1. Don't Start Too Big

One of the biggest mistakes people make when trying to establish a new habit is starting too big. While it's tempting to jump right in and make big changes, this approach can be overwhelming and unsustainable. Instead, start small and gradually build momentum over time. For example, if you want to start exercising, begin with a short daily walk or a few minutes of stretching and gradually increase the duration and intensity over time. Starting small and building gradually can make the process more manageable and increase your chances of success.

2. Don't Rely On Motivation Alone

Many people believe that motivation is the key to building a new habit. While motivation can be helpful, it's not sustainable in the long run. Motivation is often fleeting and can be easily derailed by setbacks or distractions. Instead, focus on building discipline and consistency. Make a plan, set goals, and stick to them even when you don't feel motivated. Over time, the habit will become automatic, and you'll be less reliant on motivation to keep going.

3. Don't Give Up Too Soon

Building a new habit takes time and persistence. It's easy to get discouraged when you don't see immediate results or encounter setbacks along the way. However, giving up too soon can sabotage your efforts and prevent you from achieving your goals. Instead, stay persistent and keep working towards your habit even when progress seems slow. Remember that building a new habit is a journey, and setbacks and challenges are a normal part of the process.

4. Don't Be Too Hard On Yourself

When trying to establish a new habit, it's easy to fall into the trap of self-criticism and negative self-talk. However, this approach can be counterproductive and demotivating. Instead, practice self-compassion and be kind to yourself. Focus on the progress you've made, even if it's small, and celebrate your successes along the way. Treat yourself with the same kindness and compassion you would show to a friend.

5. Don't Ignore Your Triggers

Triggers are cues or stimuli that can lead to a particular behaviour or habit. For example, if you always crave a snack when you're stressed, stress is a trigger for that habit. Ignoring your triggers can make it harder to establish a new habit or break an old one. Instead, identify your triggers and find ways to minimise their impact. For example, if stress is a trigger for snacking, find alternative ways to manage stress, such as meditation or exercise.

6. Don't Keep Doing Something You Don't Enjoy

Trying to establish a new habit that you don't enjoy can be a recipe for failure. While it's important to challenge yourself and step out of your comfort zone, it's also important to choose activities that you enjoy. If you don't enjoy running, for example, find another form of exercise that you find more enjoyable, such as dancing or swimming. When you enjoy the habit, it's more likely to stick.

7. Don't Expect Perfection

Finally, don't expect perfection when trying to establish a new habit. Perfectionism can be a barrier to success and can prevent you from starting or continuing the habit. Instead, embrace imperfection and keep moving forward. Remember that slip-ups and setbacks are a normal part of the process and don't have to derail your progress. Focus on progress, not perfection, and celebrate your successes along the way.

FAQs:

Q: How long does it take to form a new habit?

A: The time it takes to form a new habit varies depending on the person and the habit. Some studies suggest it can take anywhere from 21 to 66 days to establish a new habit, but the exact time frame can vary.

Q: Can you build multiple habits at once?

A: It's possible to build multiple habits at once, but it can be more challenging to stay consistent and focused when trying to establish too many habits at once. It's often better to focus on one habit at a time until it becomes automatic before adding another one.

Q: What should I do if I slip up and break my habit?

A: Don't beat yourself up if you slip up and break your habit. Instead, practice self-compassion and focus on getting back on track as soon as possible. Remember that slip-ups are a normal part of the habit-building process, and they don't have to derail your progress.

Building a new habit can be challenging, but avoiding these seven common mistakes can make it easier. By starting small, focusing on discipline and consistency, staying persistent.