This presentation will review habits and routines, as well as provide tips and tricks on how to build healthy routines and habits.
What is a habit?
A habit is a settled or regular tendency or practice, which is typically hard to give up. Another definition is a routine of behavior that is repeated regularly and tends to occur subconsciously. Habits can be health promoting or harmful.
How a Habit Forms
Habits form when a new behavior is implemented into our life. As we repeat that behavior a feedback loop forms and that behavior is grouped with others in our brain. Once it is stored and we continue to repeat the behavior, then it becomes a habit
Tips for Developing Habits A few tips for developing a new habit include: ● Write it down ● Be specific ● Reward yourself ● Focus on one change at a time ● Find someone to hold you accountable ● Establish a routine |
Habit Stacking
Habit stacking is when you identify a current habit that you already do daily, then stack a new behavior you want to implement with that pre-existing habit. This is one of the most effective ways to build a new habit. Remember you must still be specific!
What is a routine?
A routine is a repeated behavior involving a momentary time commitment to a task. It requires dedication and motivation to implement, and then eventually it will require less conscious thought.
Types of Routines
There are two types of routines. It is important to find a balance of both in our daily routines.
- Primary – priorities; life-sustaining (eating, sleeping, and hygiene)
- Secondary – leisure and social activities
Benefits of Building Routines
There are many benefits of building healthy, daily routines, some of which include:
- Reduces stress
- Better sleep
- Better health
- Higher productivity
- More creative
Identity Change
Change happens when you see yourself as a person who has a particular routine that you are proud of. The habit is a daily workout and it’s what you do, but the healthier person is who you are! Your habits shape your identity!
Sample Resources
Here are a few sample resources to provide examples of building healthy habits and routines.
Monthly Habit Tracker (An Example)
Here is an example of a monthly habit tracker for November. There is a habit intended to be implemented and a reward in writing, which relates to the habit.
Weekly Routine (An example)
Here is an example of a weekly routine for Sunday-Saturday from 6AM-10PM. It can be customized for what fits best with your schedule. If you have something written down, you are more likely to stick to it!
