Establishing New Habits

​With the New Year upon us, there is new energy and new motivation for many. Some dive head first into their resolutions or goals, and some choose other ways to set intentions. Either way it can be helpful to set smaller tangible goals that you can build on, and also receive the reinforcement from your actions that you are capable of maintaining this. Please find below some considerations for supporting yourself in establishing new habits:

1. Set Smaller Goals Within the Larger Goal: Break down your bigger goal into “levels” or “steps” if possible. For example if you have an intention to meditate daily, start with 2 minutes a day for 1-2 weeks, then as you feel ready bump this up closer to 5 minutes for the next few weeks. Continuing in increments helps your mind and body see you are capable.
2. Pace Yourself: It is important to set the stage and keep the momentum going. The age old saying “slow and steady wins the race” can be key for many in establishing new habits. Also keep in mind the first 30 days are the hardest in maintaining a new habit.
3. Remind Yourself Your Motivation for Starting the New Habit: It is important before starting a new habit to get clear on why this is important to you. Once you have this clarity, find ways to remind yourself whether you write it on a sticky note or you find a photo that reminds you of where you are aiming to go.
4. Tap Into Your Inner Coach: You can be your own worst enemy or your own best friend. If you tend to be your own worst enemy, bring awareness to this and your thought patterns, be curious, and try to see if you can draw upon you “inner coach” to highlight what you are accomplishing rather than what you are not.

I am Nicole Levy, and I am here as your helping hand, reach out if you need support https://www.mindfulhealingjourney.ca/#/