The Best Way to Start a New Habit

Have you started a new habit in the past and failed? You are not alone. Implementing a new habit is not as easy as you may think. On average people fail to implement a new habit 5-7times. It takes an understanding of how your brain functions to start and stick to a habit successfully. Below are three strategies that you want to utilize when starting a new habit.

Oh, and you don't need to wait for the new year to start a new habit. Now is a good time! Habits are lifestyle changes. The sooner you start the more impact on your life.

Use these strategies to successfully implement a new habit.

Strategy #1 Raise Necessity

The best way to start a new habit is to first be clear about why you want to start the new habit and how it will change/impact your life in the future. Without necessity, it will be much harder to be successful. Write down your answers and keep them accessible so that you can look at them when you feel like skipping your habit.

Strategy #2 Specific Plan

Most people fail to stick to their new habits due to a lack of planning. The more specific you plan your implementation the more successful you will be. Identify the day, time, and place for your habit and add it to your calendar. Example: I will meditate for 5min every day at 2 pm in my living room.

Note: make sure that the habit is small enough that it fits in your schedule, not just the next week.

Strategy #3 Habit Stacking

Utilize your brain to be successful. Research has shown that stacking a new habit to an existing habit will increase the likelihood that you will stick to the habit. No behavior happens in isolation. Your old habit becomes the cue that triggers the new habit (next behavior). The key is to tie your new habit to something that you already do every day. Example: After I have my coffee in the afternoon, I will meditate for 5min in my living room.

This content is not based on a specific research study. It is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider with any health concerns. Please read the full Terms and Conditions here.