Like toddlers and broccoli

Have you heard the received wisdom that you can encourage a reluctant toddler to like broccoli after introducing it, repeatedly, 21 times? Apparently, it works. And apparently, it’s the same for any habit – whether making it or breaking it. It takes just 21 days or times to change your behaviour. Sounds simple, doesn’t it? But some bad habits are like tyrants – they crowd your head and heart so strongly that under no circumstances do they move. They have enjoyed their undisputed reign over you and will not depart easily. And some ‘good’ habits are a struggle to take on: you know it is for the best, but it feels so difficult to accomplish.

How can you crack this stalemate? Each of us will have a different technique, yet there are some common factors to try, whether you are making or breaking a habit.
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1.      Remember to breathe. This helps to control the anxiety you might be feeling when trying something new or when persevering with will power.
2.      Keep reminding yourself of why you are trying to change – whether it is for a particular point in time or for another reason entirely, remember your motivation. If it helps, display these reminders everywhere you look.
3.      Go slowly and make very small changes, trying not to achieve everything in one day. Sustainable change usually comes gradually.
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