Get into the habit of living for the better
'We are what we repeatedly do; excellence, therefore, is not an act, but a habit' Aristotle
Thursday March 04 2010
HOW many habits are you consciously aware of that no longer support moving you forward in achieving more, in being more?
If you're someone who rises and shines in looking forward to a brisk walk to nourish your body and mind at the start of each new day, imagine for a moment how your mind and body would feel without this habit for a period of a week?
To cultivate good habits you must be committed to intentional thoughts and actions.
The deliberate force of good habits will create opportunities for those who are looking to flourish to new heights. Habits can be toxic and life draining or they can fuel the muscles of your mind and imagination to become a better version of you.
The bottom line is if you want more from life, switching from old habits of thinking and doing must become your priority.
Think of it like this, what you do each day is what you become permanently.
What do you do each day that helps or hinders your ability to live a better life? If physical health is your goal, then the habit of physical activity must be your new habit of living; not zoning out in front of television absorbing yet another slice of bad news.
Here are some useful ways to interrupt old habits of living –
Welcome Newness – Do you remember how intimidated you felt when you first learned to drive a car or operate a mobile phone for the first time? Now you can't live without them! Devote 20 minutes each day to learn something new – no matter how small – get to know someone new, learn a new skills or hobby.
Practice Empathy – Develop an intuitive reaction to how others might feel. Put yourself in their shoes from time to time and feel how they might be feeling. Empathy is an inner wealth and its' power should not be underestimated. It can work wonders in helping you shift old habits of perception.
Positive People –Your mindset can be shaped by outside influences. Some people get stuck in life as a result of goals crushed in the past. They may unintentionally hinder your attempts as a result of their own habits of negative thinking! Surround yourself with positive people; find at least one positive role model to help support you!
Habits are a powerful force in all our lives and can be transformational. Imagine developing confidence as a result of your achievements. Imagine knowing that the little time and effort you're spending each day is creating a better life for you, a better future for you. Now stop imagining because changing habits is within your grasp today – It's a matter of choice.
- Emily Hurley-Wilkinson
