Whether you are religious or not Lent is a good time to tackle one of those bad habits that make you feel unhealthy, negative or like your life is out of control. The 40-day period – from 22 February to 5 April this year – is the perfect length of time to break a habit.
Our habits, good and bad, make us who we are. The key is having some control over them. If you know how to break a bad habit then even a small effort can create a big impact on your life and confidence. Here are some tips to get you started:
Commit yourself to paper
Write down what you are going to do and put it somewhere where you will see it every day.
This does two things. First, it helps you be clear about exactly what it is you want to achieve, and second it keeps you on track since it is easy to dismiss a thought, but harder to dismiss a promise printed in front of you.Don't give in to cravings
Most people fail when trying to change a habit because they give in to cravings. Understanding how cravings work can stop us from yielding. They are like a wave, they rise to a peak and then fall. People tend to believe that unless they give into a craving it will get worse and more intense. It won't. It will pass and each one you resist will make the next one easier.
Fill the void
It is easier to give something up completely rather than cutting down because the latter method keeps the habit alive. This will often leave a big void in our life which will make us vulnerable to relapse unless we find a way to fill it. Taking up a new healthy hobby like dancing or running can help fill the space and will also boost self esteem.
Enlist support
Advertise what you are doing among your friends, family and colleagues and tell them that you would really appreciate their support. You may be lucky enough to find someone who also wants to break a bad habit and you could be a valuable source of support and encouragement for each other.
Rewards
Rewards are an important way of staying motivated. Make sure you plan something really nice for 5 April (or whenever your 40 days are up if you start later).
The thrill of succeeding in breaking a bad habit will boost your health and confidence – and your relationships, which will improve as you begin to feel fabulous and radiate positive vibes.
Good luck!
Use Lent to make a change