The author of the Best Seller Atomic Habits, James Clear defines a habit as: Everyday actions and attitudes that shape our character. Throughout my life, I have heard a large number of people say phrases like: “I want to learn a new language but I don't know how to do it” or “I want to improve my diet, but…”. Although it is true that desire is the first step to obtain something, we must keep in mind that between wanting and doing, there is a big difference. I think this is the main reason why some of the goals established at the beginning of the year are not met, because they stayed in the “want” and never moved on to “do.” That is why I want to share some ideas that have been very useful in my life, to create, maintain and transform new habits.
- The key to creating habits is awareness. Being aware of our daily actions and decisions allows us to identify our own areas of improvement, be clear about our goals and create a plan to achieve them.
- The key to maintaining good habits is to postpone immediate gratification. When faced with a desire, our brain asks us for it to be fulfilled at the precise moment. If the ability to postpone the gratification desired by your brain is developed, this will bring with it discipline, self-control and better results in the personal, aspirational and work spheres.
- The power to decide. Life is built through decisions, these decisions bring us closer or further away from our best version. When we are aware of every decision we make during the day, no matter how small, we are becoming responsible and managers of our own life and therefore of the results we obtain in it. Identity is built with habits.
In short, awareness is the fundamental basis for creating and maintaining good habits. It allows us to understand our current patterns, make positive decisions, overcome obstacles, and transform our environment. Maintaining good long-term habits requires: commitment, discipline and diligence to do the necessary work at the right time. I invite you to have a moment of introspection and ask yourself the following questions:
- Do I have habits to improve? And if so, what habits would you like to replace them with?
- What are my aspirations? What can I do every day to make those aspirations come true?
- Do I live my life on autopilot or am I aware of the decisions I make every day?
