5 Ways to Build a New Habit

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5 Ways to Build a New Habit

Have you ever felt excited to try something new but then quickly lost all motivation a week into it? Don’t worry you’re not alone. Below are 5 ways you can build a new habit and actually stick with it.

1. Start Small

When starting any new habit, you will be more likely to ingrain that unfamiliar routine if you begin small. For example, if the change you’re trying to make is working out, start by going to your gym 2 or 3 days in one week. Once you get accustomed to that and it’s well rooted, then if you want to, increase the amount of days to challenge yourself.

2. Be Consistent

You may often hear that it takes 21 days to build a habit, unfortunately that is not entirely true. It takes about three months for the brain to change and to actually form a habit. Consistency is key, as you begin, do it regularly. That’s why it’s useful to start small because with a smaller commitment then you can work hard to make sure that no matter what, you will stick to it. Eventually the change you want to make will become a part of your daily routine; making it something you don’t even need to think about.

3. Tell Others About Your New Habit

Telling people or simply publishing it on your social media will increase your discipline and determination. Knowing that you have people watching you and rooting for you will give you that extra accountability you need. So reach out to your friends and share with them, as this is a great way to help build a new habit.

4. Do It With A Partner

By having a partner to build a new habit with, you can both keep each other accountable and motivated. Keep in mind that your partner’s new habit and yours don’t have to be the same but it’s always great to check in on each other.

5. Reward Yourself

Don’t forget to reward yourself. Studies have shown that building in a reward system will tie a positive feeling to this change you are working to root. By giving yourself rewards you’ll feel like your new habit is less of a chore and more as an enjoyable hobby, a way to take care of yourself, or the route to meeting even bigger goals.

If you want to learn more about building a new habit and how it can help you achieve success in both your professional and personal life our award-winning coaches at the Ignite Your Potential Centers offer complimentary 25-minute phone sessions.

We are the #1 career coaches in San Francisco and Los Angeles, let us show you how we earned that praise.

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