Strange Problems In Changing Habits
When we think about habits, we tend to consider overeating, nail biting, smoking, or irritating gestures like throat clearing. Then we think about will power and we are sure that any bad habit can be overcome by persons who are emotionally stable and strong-minded.
Some personal habits chosen by seniors can drive people away and increase isolation and loneliness
Some habits are things we do want such as using a turn signal or brushing our teeth at bedtime. Good and bad habits have one important thing in common. We do not really think about them. We just do them.
Failures Can Be Valuable Experiences
Improving ourselves involves learning new ways of doing things. Changing habits isn't easy and most people have had the experience of trying something and failing.
In "Simple Zen Habits" Leo Babauta says that after failure, we should not give up, but must reset our resolve.
So if I decide to lose some pounds after the new year, and I give in to temptation and eat something bad for me, I should just start over again with new determination. Building new eating habits is truly difficult for anyone because we get hungry several times a day.
Change Means Creating A New Part of Ourselves
Others may be surprised by our change and unprepared. A friend might offer me food she knows I love because she wants to please me, and she would certainly not be ready for me to set her gift aside rather than eat it right away. She will have to adjust to the new me and I will have to give her time.
I have to adjust to a new me too. I need to be kind to myself, patient, and very very strong.
