Oops my new habit’s broken!
This is traditionally the time of year when we establish new habits, learn new skills and reach for new personal goals. We join gyms and take up classes, investing in new equipment and clothing for the purpose. We promise ourselves a ‘new us’.
Fast forward a few weeks (perhaps days) and we’ve broken our new habit, the shiny ‘new us’ has lapsed and our new stuff is gathering dust. Those we’ve boasted to about our new venture might now turn to ridicule and we’re left feeling foolish.
Perhaps we are! Things happen, we get sick, we get challenged, we lose our way – we’re human beings! We are foolish to expect ourselves to be as consistent as machines. Many would say the critical stage of starting something new isn’t at the beginning but when we waver. What we do next is crucial. Here are some suggestions….
WHAT?
Investigate what exactly happened. What were the feelings, behaviour and events that led to getting off track? What were the early warning signs? What could you do differently so this doesn’t happen again?
WHY?
Remind yourself of why you are doing this. What do you really desire? What are you investing in? How does this fit with the bigger picture of your life? How does it relate to your purpose and spiritual beliefs?
HOW?
Consider how you have been making changes. Has your routine become boring? Are you attempting to progress too quickly and becoming overwhelmed or too slowly so you lack momentum?
WHO?
Who do you need to get on board? Who can help you stay accountable? Whose knowledge and experience can you benefit from? Perhaps you could benefit from the support of a professional Life Coach.
WHEN?
When will you get back on track? Make this soon, and definite, and stick to it!
Working through these questions will give you more vigour for your next phase. You might even find more focus and fun than when you first started. And then you might well find there’s another lapse. Rather than feeling bad or giving up, just use the steps to get better and get back to it. The aim shouldn’t be to have no lapses, but to increase your self knowledge and recovery so you’re able to get back into your new groove quickly and smoothly.
For more guidance on the process of making changes in your life, including the steps above, get in touch with Life Coach Deborah Reeds for a free initial conversation.
Deborah Reeds
deborahreeds.com
