Habits are repeated behaviours that have become part of our routine, we do them on auto-pilot, sub-consciously or semi-consciously. Some of them are positive and add value to our lives and others are destructive or even dangerous. Regularly making choices that benefit us can also become a habit – with a little practice.
Some years ago, I was struggling to accept compliments, and would usually receive them with a response along the lines of “what this old thing – it makes my bum look huge!” or “Really? I thought I could have done that job much better.” It had become a habit to dismiss compliments. What I had not appreciated was it was a choice. I could choose to accept a compliment with grace – whether or not I believed it. I could choose to take it at face value and accept it came with good intentions and sincerity.
By making this choice, I learned a new habit. It was tricky at first; I bit my lip many times before I replied, consiously “thank you.” Watching the positive results this created reinforced that I had made the right choice and I now enjoy my new habit – in fact I’m addicted!
What habit will you choose to start today?
I love this Dinah, so true. The choices we make can be habitual and breaking them can be difficult but once broken they can change your life!
Going to be working on breaking some of my habits made by choice. Thank you 🙂