Habits — Hurtful or Helpful? How to Know the Difference

I've often said that I love a good habit. In my opinion they can make life a good deal easier. I run 4 mornings a week through my neighborhood and pretty much put things on automatic pilot because I run the same route every time. Not too exciting, but it leaves my mind free to wander and do some creative problem solving.

Good Habits vs. Bad Habits

Some habits save time, require less thought, and generally free you up. Those are good ones to have. However, it's also easy to fall into bad habits that can be expensive, time consuming, and unhealthy. Examples include:

• Eating lots of junk food (not good for your wallet or your body)
• Getting home from work and turning into a couch potato
• Smoking or chewing tobacco

Habits can be tricky to break because we're often not even aware of what we're doing — whatever the behavior is just happens automatically.

Take Stock Periodically

Periodically it's a good idea to take stock and see where you are in your life. Are you achieving your goals professionally? Is your personal life satisfactory? Are you as healthy as you should (or could) be? Ask yourself honestly whether your current habits are helping you or holding you back.

Don't Be Afraid to Ask for Help

Check with a friend or family member who has good judgment and will give you an honest opinion. Or consult a professional. As a hypnotherapist, I help people uncover unhealthy patterns and change them — and become happier with their lives. Remember, habits can be changed. Just because you've had a bad habit for the past 10 years, you don't have to have it for the next 10!