How do you build a good habit?

We all know those individuals who are always able to fit in their workload, eat healthy, exercise, do well in their exams, etc., etc. And many of us think that they are super humans; something we might not achieve. The truth is that their super powers are the result of good habits and we can achieve the same.

Good habits are the result of intentional actions that are consistently and repeatedly executed. It takes time and effort to get those good habits in place. Once installed in your mind, good habits happen without giving them much thought and will fuel a healthy lifestyle and personal development!

Consider these steps for building good habits:

1. Write down your desired habits

Focus on the new, positive habits you wish to build. Put them on post-it notes, as a screen saver on your phone or put them in places where you need them most, for example in the fridge (for a habit around eating habits) or at your work station (for a habit specific to work). In the past I have put some manual post-it notes on my computer’s keyboard.

Make sure to be specific, for example it is better to say: ‘I exercise 15 minutes for four days a week.’, than saying: ‘I exercise regularly.’

2. Have a plan

Having a clear view of your desired habit is step one in the process. Now follows a clear plan addressing how I will do it, when, where, with whom, etc. The clearer your plan, the easier it is to implement the habits.

Part of your plan should include to put the specific action items in your diary with appropriate reminders.

3. Convert your plan in a daily routine

Consistency is one of the most powerful tools for change. Once you have identified healthy habits that you hope to incorporate into your life, pick a time of day to do them, and stick to it.

4. Avoid negative triggers

Often your negative habits are the result of specific triggers, for example when you don’t have breakfast you stuff your face at tea-time with sweets and cake. The corrective measure to achieve a healthier lifestyle is thus to have breakfast.

5. Take small steps

When you make too drastic changes you run the risk of losing your will power and giving up. Focus on consistently practicing small habits. For example: if you are having unhealthy eating habits, it is not sustainable to change everything in one go. Perhaps you first cut on the alcohol and after a week or two you cut some carbs.

6. Measure the progress

Measuring your progress and celebrating how far you have come, will not only make you feel good about your process, but will also keep you motivated. You can do this by keeping a journal or using one of the many apps available.

7. Find support

It is so much easier to stick to an action plan when others know about it and keep you accountable. Ask a close friend, family member, coach, or mentor to hold you accountable for the behaviour change you plan on making.

8. Be kind to yourself

Life does happen and from time to time you might not succeed to the expected levels. Forgive yourself and get back on track. Many people, once they have slipped up, see it as an excuse to stop their good behaviours. If you can’t fly then run; if you can’t run then walk; if you can’t walk then crawl; but whatever you do, you have to keep moving forward. Be persistent.

Remember: Drop by drop is the water pot filled. Buddha