Changing Old Habits -by Suzie Daggett
Lately, I started questioning how to change my not so good habits for a better, calmer, healthier life. I know eating too many chips for lunch does not agree with me, yet I do it anyway. I get over impacted with nasty, nasty news, yet I listen. I get greedy with chocolate at night, knowing it does not settle well in my body. I still have household items, ie, stuff to get rid of.
Finally, I set my intention to change my mind, thus my habits: I started by recognizing what is bothering me in a slow and deliberate manner. Instead of too many chips, I substituted fruit. I slowed down on chocolate. I changed my radio news update habits by switching to music. I gave stuff away. Then, I took time to appreciate how good it all feels! And, it does!
Deciding to change is heroic but getting yourself into a mental attitude to actually change when procrastination, your norm, your comfort level, leads you stay the same. But….if you have the inclination to change, you might become a brighter, better, sane person. Change can come from being inspired by a random thought from a friend or something you read or hear that triggers you. Then, it is time to let that “trigger” settle into your mind and heart.
Change is awkward in the beginning. Start with an idea, intention, or motive, to do one or two things differently a day. It will take time and desire to replace old habits, but you can do it. Just as I have. With dedication I changed the chip habit, nasty news habit, chocolate habit, and too much unnecessary stuff habit.
You might have very different needs for change: getting out of a rut, cleaning a hoarder’s style basement, or addressing personality issues. List a few steps that might be the starting point for change. Talk with those who can help if needed (there are many helpers out there).
Be gentle with yourself! Take loving time in this process. See what happens. Try it for three days, then for a week, then with a longer longer and ever longer timeframe suddenly you have new habits, and your life will change. Be grateful as you navigate a new fresh lease on life. It has helped me. I still have lots to do, but I also have the intention and desire to be a better me.
Suzie Daggett is the author of: The Pink Door ~ Moms’ Journey to the Other Side providing a roadmap to assist elders in their dying process and comfort the caregiver; From Ego to Soul ~ Discover what your Soul needs and what your Ego wants: and PEARLS ~ 52 Contemplative Insights. Suzie’s gift is to spin practical easily understood real life advice to bring clarity to everyday living.
