March 29, 2016
In my previous article, I discussed strategies for avoiding costly mistakes during the process of building your success. The most significant change we all need to address is our habits; while some may be acceptable, the majority are simply unacceptable. Is there a formula for this quadratic equation?
I like to use the puppy approach; if your dog dies, you replace it with a new dog and learn to love it. It helps you cope with the loss of your beloved dog, who has been a part of your family for years. Applying this strategy to any obsession you're struggling with requires an active practice that fosters growth and a positive mindset.
When you replace an unacceptable pattern with a particular affirmative habit, it helps you forget that pattern ever existed or provides temporary relief until you adjust to removing it totally from your daily routines. Similar to the aftermath of a breakup with a loved one, most people attempt to find a replacement for their loss. They need that comfort zone—it's not easy, but it's helpful until they adjust to a suitable partner.
If we understand this practice correctly, each time we want to make an adjustment, such as breaking away from a bad habit, we need to replace it with a substance that will occupy our time during the unpleasant feelings we are experiencing. Keeping your mind occupied is an essential element; I do agree it is easier said than consummated.
Here's a perfect example: you want to quit drinking, but how do you find a replacement? You get home, and the first thing you do is crack open a bottle of beer, perhaps a glass of wine, or whatever it is you enjoyed drinking. Consider exercising, going for a jog, taking a walk, or simply riding your bicycle instead of consuming alcohol. You need something to substitute the terrible habit of drinking during those times.
Rather than following the same route home, where you would typically pause to grab your preferred beverage, consider taking a different route. These small steps are crucial for achieving this kind of success. During your drive home, you will see new things and not stop at the same shop.
Essential Elements for Breaking Bad Habits
The first step you will need to establish is the pattern you want to remove from your daily routines. The mind has mysterious abilities when you write down the problem you want to remove permanently. Write a short description of what you are craving to change, along with the strategy you will use to eliminate this pattern. Share your emotions and feelings, explaining why you need to modify this habit from your life and how it will transform your attitude. Describe how this change will enhance your present circumstances and foster a more productive mindset.
Who is with you when these obstacles arise?
Are you in an unfamiliar or uncomfortable place?
Do they occur at a particular time of day?
Boost your results with this process—a hidden secret that only a select few know!
The more information you can gather about the habits you want to change when you're writing your action plan, the more it will increase your overall results with the transformation.
What Creates Bad Habits?
Most of the time, boredom and stress are the primary causes of our unacceptable habits, which include drinking, smoking, and laziness, among many other habits we have attempted to eliminate from our lives. Sometimes the patterns stem from deeper issues, necessitating a significant amount of time to fully understand the root cause. In some cases, we may need to seek professional therapy; never be ashamed of taking this route.
Understanding the core source of our unacceptable habits provides a solution that we can implement with satisfactory results. You do not need to be someone else; you need to visualize your success with breaking patterns that are holding you back from a much more peaceful, enjoyable lifestyle.
All the Best,
Joseph Botelho
