How to Turn Bad Habits into Good Habits

It’s the new year and many people start focusing on making resolutions. But unfortunately, many quit doing them the second week of January. Instead of resolutions, let’s talk about habits.

What is a Habit?

A habit is simply an action we repeat over and over. We do it so often or so long, it simply becomes normal and natural – like brushing your teeth before bed. So habits can be positive or helpful. Or they can be negative or unhelpful. And sometimes we keep doing them even though they cause pain or discomfort because we are used to doing them. And we don’t know what else to do or how to change.

What’s one habit you’re doing right now that’s helpful? Pat yourself on the back. Then look at one that’s not helpful. How can you modify or change that? In a small way.

For example, you’re eating ice cream every night and having bloating after eating it. It’s become a habit that you look forward to at the end of the day because you love the taste of ice cream. It relaxes you and brings a smile to your face. But you don’t love the bloating or the excess weight.

What Can You Do? Several possibilities include:

1. Don’t ever eat it again (Probably too extreme, right!)
2. Look at what brand you’re eating. Is it filled with a lot of ingredients that may cause side effects like bloating? So try switching to a healthier brand with only a few ingredients.
3. Maybe it’s the dairy, from cow’s milk which many people have sensitivities to. So switch to a dairy-free product like So Delicious or Cado or Nada Moo.
4. Maybe you know you’re lactose intolerant. You could try taking a supplement with lactase enzymes such as Lactaid or Dairy Digest. (Check with your own medical practitioner first.)
5. Or work on fixing your overall gut (AKA digestive system). Many people need to eliminate certain foods for a while. Then once feeling better, they can occasionally eat the troublesome foods without symptoms or issues.

So see – there are many ways to turn a “bad” or negative habit into a positive or “good” one. It just takes some creativity, knowledge, and time. This is one thing I do as a health and wellness coach. We work together to help you decrease symptoms and figure out simple ways to make your health and life optimal. So if you want some one-on-one help, reach out to me by contacting me here. And make 2024 your year of great habits and the beginning of great life-long health!

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I am a National Board Certified Health and wellness Coach and help women over 40 who have fatigue, digestive issues (like bloating, constipation, diarrhea), brain fog, weight issues, as well as thyroid and autoimmune problems. I work with you and as a team, we focus on nutrition and lifestyle factors to help you have more energy, think clearer, and fit into those favorite jeans again. You can do this! You just might need some help from someone who’s been there herself and worked with clients – helping guide, support, and encourage you each step of the way. Contact me here to set up a free strategy session to see how we can work together. — Leah Cheshire, NBC-HWC