Habits are simply those go to repeated behaviours which we all have. Habits tend to fall into three main categories:
Unnoticed– things we do without thinking (e.g., locking the door)
Healthy– things we try to develop (e.g., going to the gym)
Unhealthy– things we instinctively do without wanting to (e.g., self-criticism)
So, habits are neither good nor bad, but simply part of the way we navigate life. But they can be hacked in a way which helps us or otherwise.
Because our habits are automatic scripts our brain runs, they can be helpful in creating behaviours without us having to think too much in the moment. For example, if I want to drink more water, creating a habit which means I just keep a glass at my desk and fill it when thirsty instead of asking myself what I want to drink (I’d never choose water!) can help me to make the right choice for my desired goal.
Our two tools for this session will look at some of the tools we can use to help us change our habits, but as a starter we need to recognise:
Research from Duke University suggest over 40% of what we do is determined by habits and not decisions.
If our habits go unchecked, we often won’t be aware of why we act in certain ways.
One of the best ways to get arid of old habits is to replace them with new ones.
People often say they can’t help how they act, or that things just happen. The truth is that there is a chain of events which occur before we act.
Creating new habits requires us to think ahead, and to plan, prepare and then perform.
Download our free core concept and key tools resource worksheets.
* As an Amazon Associate, I earn a commission from any qualifying purchases you make using the BUY link on this page. This supports us to keep our Life Garage core materials free to access.