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Building Good Habits
As we begin the New Year, this is the time where you might decide to try something new, to try to get better at something, to create some new habits.
We’ve all done it – waded enthusiastically into the New Year, bursting with amazing plans of a lifestyle haul, and we tell ourselves that this time, we are going to stick to it.
But how can we stick to them, so they become part of our daily lives?
Our habits shape who we are. Habits shape our attitudes, actions, and decision-making abilities. And they affect every aspect of our lives. The power of habits is far-reaching. So how can we make sure we are successful in our attempt to build good habits?
Pick one thing – and make it a tiny thing.
When you are building a house, you start with one brick, and it’s the same for new habits. Success in one area builds confidence to make changes in the future. Once you have one habit embedded, you can add another, and another.
As James Clear puts it in his book Atomic Habits, it’s easy to believe that massive results must come from massive changes. But the difference that a tiny improvement can make over time is enormous. Choose small things that need very little willpower to succeed. Tiny decisions, on repeat, make a real difference.
Attach it to something that you already do – something that you like.
We all have certain habits that are well-formed and automatic. Brushing our teeth is a great example. Most of us do this twice a day, probably at specific times. Attaching a new habit to an old one can act as a trigger to help you remember. Pairing can work even better if you combine your new habit with something you love. Try pairing something that you should do with something that you want to do. For example, if you love stories but not running, use your run to listen to a great novel.
We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.
Excellence is one of our core values, as we wish for everyone in our school community to strive for excellence in whatever they choose to do. Building small, good habits is a way in which we can all strive for Excellence.
Armed with these simple tips, you’re all set to make changes that last.
Good luck - and Happy New Year!
