Weighing in on Habits



Photo of me about to weigh in, before the New Year. 

When is the most auspicious day to start a new habit or project? The first day of the week? The start of the school year? The New Year? For me, I'm likely to be looking at sometime in 'tomorrowland'. Now is usually an unpopular time. Things will surely be easier at some unspecified time in the future, no? The problem with 'tomorrow logic' is that the future eventually arrives... or does it? Each tomorrow that passes makes it harder, or in some cases, too late. 

Thoughts of diving in can be overwhelming, but some people get a surge of energy and focus by being bold. Others prefer the buddy system or another form of accountability. There is no one right way for everyone, but it seems to me that a blast start is unsustainable over the long term. And stopping, only to have to start all over... well. 

I've heard that taking small steps to start are the best. Make one call; start with 3 yoga poses; write a few sentences, or just walk around the block to begin your idea of daily walks. For weight loss, I think a food log to monitor what I eat or drink, will be a good first step.The thought of having to keep a good habit forever is daunting ... so that is where the "one day at a time", one step at a time comes in. It is enough to begin. Then take the first step over and over.

What saves a man is to take a step, then another step.
It is always the same step. But you have to take it. 

~ Antione de Saint-Exupery

Happy New Year! 

Comments

  1. AnnetteJanuary 1, 2025 at 10:43 AM

    Well said, I so agree - one step at a time and you just have to take that step :) Thank and I wish you and Rich a Very Happy New Year! keep warm and enjoy!

    ReplyDelete

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