by Carolyn Corbin
When I was pumped up on New Year’s enthusiasm, my friend Ruth and I pledged to renew ourselves in the coming year. As the new year was upon us, I felt enthused to re-make my health not to mention finances, housekeeping, and parenting skills. A shinier version of me. Carolyn 2.0 has arrived.
Full of enthusiasm, I could clearly imagine my new healthy and virtuous life. One new habit I wished for was to drink more water. In my mind’s eye, I saw myself smiling and wiping my chin, a satisfied 'Ah!". And by day two I'd already fallen off the wagon. I won't say exactly how except that it might have involved donuts.
Turns out, it can be hard to change habits. I recently learned our habits are regulated by the part of the brain called the basil ganglia. If you think you sometimes run on remote control, it’s because you do! Almost 40% of our daily behaviors are rote habits run by the basal ganglia. But don’t be annoyed with your amazing brain. Being able get dressed and make breakfast by habit is much easier than reinventing your morning every day.
I don’t want to change all of my habits, just the bad ones. Replacing bad habits with what we really want is one recommended strategy. When I feel blue or fearful I suddenly crave glazed donuts. But what I really want is strength and confidence.
When starting new habits, experts say it’s smart to start small. Like when I started taking vitamin D and calcium supplements. It’s small action and can be easily forgot until the new activity is folded into my routine. I pop the tablets down with my coffee in the morning – and now vitamin D is becoming part of my habitual routine.
What gives me strength and confidence? Maybe I could take a brisk walk or call on a friend for a pep talk. Or, maybe I’m just dehydrated and upping my water level will do the trick.
One glass of water, please.
Carolyn Corbin is the founder of Akimboo.com. Carolyn invites you to embed wellness into your routine by scheduling movement & mindfulness into your daily calendar.