How to Create a Habit

Creating a habit can be life-changing, but we can all agree that it is not easy. Some people are able to create habits overnight, but for most, steps have to be taken. Forming a habit will be tough and there will be battles, but if you work through them, a habit will be made. Listed below are steps to take in creating a habit that can better your career, education, and life.

Friendly Reminder – Remember that motivation is key when looking to create a habit. Ask yourself why you started and how will this habit change your daily life. Staying focused on the long-term results will help you stick with your new habit. Perhaps you want to stay current with trends in the stock market. Remember the benefits that could come from knowing the most updated trends and information.

Think of the Future – Each day, visualize where you will be in five years if you stick with your new habit. Look at the benefits of winning the battle on the days you want to give up. If you want to finish your bachelor’s or master’s degree, think of what that accomplishment will do for you in the future. Completing your degree could help you obtain your dream job or help advance you at your current job.

Realize Obstacles – Let’s say you want to make better grades, take the time to think of all the obstacles that could affect your schoolwork, and create a plan to overcome them. Planning ahead could save you from below-average work. Consider using a monthly planner to write down dates that papers are due and when exams are scheduled to plan accordingly.

Peer Pressure – No, not the type of peer pressure that will make you do something you will later regret. This is the peer pressure to hold you accountable. Consider letting your friends or family know what habit you are trying to create and ask them to hold you accountable. This will be beneficial because you will have a second party to help keep you motivated and accountable.

Remove Discouragement – Nothing is more disheartening than when you get poor results. Keep in mind, results do not happen overnight. It will take time for your new habit to stick. If you let discouragement in, it will harm your desire to keep going. For example, you wanted to meet five people at work each month, but you only met two, do not get discouraged. You can make it up the next month and meet more people. Keep moving forward and you will create a habit.

This Lifelete Fundamental was powered by Forbes and the Huffington Post