Why do people find it so hard to change their habits? “It’s just what we do,” “It works for us,” “We’re fine this way.” Really? You’re spending $200 more on electricity than necessary because you can’t be bothered to check a comparison site, and then you complain about being broke? You stop for a $5 coffee on your way to work because you like to sleep in, but you’re sleep-deprived from watching TV until late at night? You take a month to respond to a friend’s email even though you spend five hours a day on Facebook?
DON’T SAY NO IF YOU HAVEN’T TRIED
A random fact: I co-own an energy-saving company in Spain. One of our products is a low-flow showerhead that mixes water with air, making the flow feel the same but using less water. Notice if your faucet’s flow is transparent (just water) or foamy white (water and air, energy-saving). I installed one at home, and after a month, my roommate didn’t even realize it, showing there was no difference in comfort. When we offered this product to hotels, some rejected it fearing client complaints. Others tried a sample, found no difference, and equipped their entire hotels, saving loads of water.
Change can be intimidating. You need to step out of your comfort zone, make mistakes, and all for a chance of success. Unless you think you’re perfect, there are likely areas in your life you’re not happy about. Think about what you’ve been complaining about lately. For instance, I often complain about not being organized enough. My digital life is chaotic, with files scattered everywhere on my computer, and my blog posts aren’t always scheduled ahead of time. I can keep complaining or do something about it.
In February, I set weekly goals to tidy up my digital life so I could start fresh in March. Sure, it’s easier to sit around and do nothing, but my cluttered computer affects me mentally too. Instead of making a list of blog topics and an editorial calendar, I keep it all in my head, which confuses me. Change is good.
A lot of talent is wasted because people lack the courage to try. By letting fear hold you back, you miss out on more than you realize.
MAKE AN EDUCATED DECISION
My mom used to say I had to try my vegetables before deciding I didn’t want them. Despite her terrible cooking, at least I tried. Saying yes opens more doors. I used to hate avocados as a kid, but now I love guacamole.
You can always return to your old habits if nothing better comes along. But why not give something new a try?
MAKE THE HABIT SO EASY YOU CAN’T SAY NO
In February, I aimed to swim four times a week for 15 minutes each session. I experimented with creating a habit and found that just jumping into the water without overthinking worked best. Setting a specific time didn’t work because something would always come up, or the weather wouldn’t cooperate. I made it easier by having my swimsuit on or just jumping in fully clothed. Once in the water, 15 minutes was easy.
It’s all in our minds. Trick your mind and challenge yourself to small goals, like running for one minute instead of ten. Celebrate your milestones.
NEVER SETTLE
We naturally seek comfort and avoid pain, but that won’t get us anywhere. Getting out of debt starts with a small payment, and a career move begins with sending out a resume. Review your finances and other areas you’re unhappy with. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, training, a raise, or a discount on your bills.
Trying small changes can lead to surprising results.
What was the last thing you changed in your life? Was it for the better?