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Have you ever felt overwhelmed by the thought of breaking a bad habit or beginning a new one? It’s not uncommon to put off making changes, even when we really want to. There are lots of reasons why people avoid change. Some of the top include-
- Fear of failure
- Fear of judgement
- Overwhelm and underwhelm
- Uncertainty where to begin
If any of these sound familiar, there’s a solution that may help. Instead of trying to make large changes, think micro rather than macro. Micro changes are tiny, seemingly insignificant changes that add up to big shifts in behavior. Adopting micro habits can give you the motivational boost you need to overcome your fears, over- or underwhelm, and give you a roadmap towards bigger goals.
Micro Habits Are Foolproof
Micro habits are so small they are essentially foolproof. If you fear you can’t or won’t stick to a new habit, adopting a micro habit can help get you started without worrying you’ll fail. An example could be committing to making the bed each morning. The micro habit of making the bed only takes minutes and the results will boost your mood. Each time you see your tidy bed you’ll be proud that you completed the task.
Micro Habits Build Confidence
Doing the right thing builds confidence. Each time you make a smart choice, it helps your esteem. Adopting a micro habit can give you the structure and the discipline you need to adopt other habits. An example could be washing your face and brushing your teeth each night. Taking five to ten minutes for nighttime hygiene is good for your health and the simple task builds discipline. Some nights you may want to forgo the effort, but since it’s a small and easy task, you’ll be more likely to stick with it.
Micro Habits Aren’t Stressful
If you feel too overwhelmed to add something to your to do list you may avoid it, even when it’s a good idea. Also, if you’ve been in a slump and lack motivation, it’s easy to talk yourself out of doing things. Micro habits are small enough that they won’t overwhelm you when you’re stressed and they can motivate you when you are struggling with mood. An example could be setting your things beside the door each night before going to bed. Getting your things ready for the day before bed can help you have less stress in the morning and get out the door on time.
Micro Habits Build on Themselves
You may have a long-term goal, but aren’t certain where to begin. Micro habits are ideal when you need to take action, but aren’t confident with the big picture. Start small with one action and build on it over time. Going back to making the bed. Once you’ve mastered making the bed each day without fail, it will be easy to add an action like picking up clutter right after. Next, you may add an action like wiping down surfaces and so on. Before long, you have a routine and habit in place to keep your room neat and tidy.
Micro habits are tiny actions that don’t seem like a big deal, but they really are. You can radically change your surroundings, mindset, health, and relationships one micro habit at a time.
Loving Life–The Reboot!
Dominique
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This article provides general information and discussion about health and related subjects. The information and other content provided in this article, or in any linked materials, are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice. Consult your own physician for any medical issues that you may be having.
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