Identifying and Overcoming Bad Habits

In recent times, I have been focused on eliminating my detrimental habits and fostering positive ones. By "detrimental," I refer to those behaviors that no longer enhance my life or contribute to my desired self. On the other hand, cultivating good habits leads to a more fulfilling existence and helps shape the person I aspire to be.

Currently, I'm delving into Atomic Habits by James Clear. Each chapter prompts me to reread and highlight significant points, allowing me to thoroughly absorb the insights presented. The book is filled with valuable lessons.

Our habits are ingrained in our subconscious. Often, we perform them without conscious thought, similar to flushing a toilet—it's a routine I can never recall clearly, prompting me to check back in panic.

To effectively change my negative habits, I first need to recognize them. James Clear suggests two key strategies:

1. Habit Scorecard

Begin by documenting your daily activities and categorizing each habit as good (+), neutral (=), or bad (—). Positive habits align with the person I aim to become. Here’s an example from my typical morning:

Morning Routine:

• Wake up (=)
• Check my phone (-)
• Use the bathroom
• Brush teeth (+)
• Go for a walk (+)
• Take a shower (+)
• Brew coffee (+)

Daily Activities:

• Have a sandwich at break (-)
• Consume an unhealthy work lunch (-)
• Check my phone (-)

Evening Routine:

• Lounge on the couch (-)
• Skip the gym (-)
• Prepare a healthy meal (+)
• Watch Netflix (-)
• Doomscroll (-)
• Snack after dinner (-)
• Take a bath (+)

Do you see a pattern? Most of my negative habits occur during work hours or in the evening!

2. Point and Call

Acknowledging my bad habits is crucial. By vocalizing them, I bring them into my conscious awareness. I state my actions aloud and their implications, such as:

• "I am watching Netflix. This will detract from my priorities."
• "I am heading to the fridge for a snack. This will add to my waistline."
• "I am lying on the couch doomscrolling. This contributes to aging."

Verbalizing these actions makes their consequences more tangible.

What does your habit scorecard reveal about you?

For further insights, consider obtaining a copy of Atomic Habits [here](affiliate link).

If you're interested in more content like this:

• Subscribe to my newsletter — Life Notes.
• Read my book — Unleashed: A Solo Female Traveler’s Journey of Discovery.
• Check out my Vision Board Workbook to clarify your aspirations.

Chapter 2: Video Insights on Habit Formation

To further enhance your understanding of habits, check out the following videos:

The first video features James Clear discussing strategies to break bad habits and embrace positive ones for 2024.

Additionally, James Clear provides insights on improving 1% every day and effectively transforming your habits.

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This article was published on July 31st, 2024, in Long. Sweet. Valuable.