Like most people, you have plenty of habits. As the saying goes, we are naturally wired to follow routines. Our brains, not our core selves, wire us to be habitual. Let me explain—have you ever preferred sitting in the same area of a classroom in college? Have you ever picked the same dish at a local restaurant? Not because you liked it, but because it felt safe and familiar? That’s how we wire ourselves—we engage in patterns that make navigating life more manageable.
But here’s the issue: sometimes, those habits hurt us. They can damage our relationships and emotional health. I’ve worked with many people. Often, they hold onto solutions they believe will help. Then, they find those same solutions and turn them into problems. Yes, you read that correctly—the habit that once seemed beneficial can become a roadblock. Habits can evolve into dependencies or even addictions.
Take gambling, for example. Many people start placing bets on platforms like 22Bet, thinking it’s a casual pastime. Yet, if unchecked, what begins as entertainment can become a hard-to-break routine. To break unhelpful habits, you need awareness. Notice when a behavior isn’t helping you. Then, take steps to change it.
Many people struggle with mindless scrolling and unhealthy eating. They often make choices that don’t bring them joy. You’re not alone in this. You can break the cycle. Change is possible. Start by replacing old patterns with healthier ones. These new habits will help you grow and not hold you back.
So, How Do We Break a Habit?
How do we get out of a pattern of thinking or behavior? You need to remember that you are challenging a pattern in your brain. This organ does a lot of good, but it can also act in ways that are not helpful.
Break it Down Into Small Steps
Now, this is the tricky part: you’ve got to break the habit into steps. To cut carbs from your daily diet, start by taking small steps. If you often eat without thinking, focus on changing that habit. Try shopping more intentionally. You can prep meals or ask friends about their eating habits. Set a limit on how many carb-filled items you’ll have. Break the habit down into smaller steps. Then, create realistic and measurable solutions. Trying to quit everything at once often leads to short-term success. People may stop for a day or two, but then they fall back into their old habits and give up for good.
You Will Have Slips or Setbacks
It’s inevitable. Your brain will resist change, often nudging you back toward familiar habits. Practice self-compassion, and don’t break down or quit if you stumble. Let it be a sign that you are resisting the brain and the habit—that’s good!
Replace, Don’t Remove
Now, you need to engage in replacement, not mere removal of the habit. If you cut back on carbs, replace them with other foods like salads and proteins. Focus less on restriction and more on choosing healthier options and habits.
We All Love Milestones
So, set a goal and measure it with the habit. When you hit your goal, treat yourself. AChoose a reward that reinforces your progress, not one that pulls you back into the habit you’re trying to quit. Instead, choose something that helps you celebrate your progress. Also, tell others. Reinforcement is strong. Letting others join you in your space can boost your change!
Conclusion
To break bad habits, focus on awareness, take small steps, and stay consistent. Real change happens when you understand how habits form. Take intentional steps to replace them. Also, give yourself grace during setbacks. Remember, progress is more important than perfection. Keep pushing ahead. Recognize your milestones. Embrace the path to healthier and more mindful choices.
