Revisit/Renew

Embarking on a conscious, methodical change(s) in your life is not simple when you have to press on the discipline. At first it may seem daunting but if you are committed then you have to continue on. If you have not yet acquainted yourself with the Habit Exercise (See blog: March '23 - Noteworthy  )

Let’s revisit the Habit Exercise again. We will continue to revisit this Habit Exercise from time to time. It is the most basic way to list your patterns and assess them on your own as you attempt to methodically modify your life. Previous to this the Habit Exercise was divided into two parts: Part I was to list your habits in a notebook: one column being what you think as conscious habits and another, unconscious habits. Reorder the list from high (positive habits) to low (less productive habits). Part II involved getting someone who knows you well to list the habits they have observed, and then send the list to you. Then you compare the list and attempt to work on what is the most important change to you. This exercise requires a level of objectivity and that in and of itself may be a challenge, but when you are making deliberate changes, you must exercise a level of objectivity in your perspective. Do not expect anyone to make your changes, you are solely responsible. Taking full responsibility for your habits is very important because there is no defence mechanism when you are seeking change.

Notebook exercise:

Step 1:  Create 2 columns: one, for positive habits (as per your personal perception); and, the second column for negative habits. List a few or as many as you wish, but keep it as simple as possible for now.

Step 2: Beside each habit on your list check mark what you consider to be unconscious habits and place an x-mark beside the conscious habits.

 (I have made a slight adjustment. For the purpose of this blog, at this time we will be identifying both conscious and unconscious habits).

Step 3: Choose one habit that is easy to change and decide how you will adjust yourself to eliminate or improve on that habit.

One of the ways to help yourself when you think you have side-stepped from your focus; revise your process of personal change. Honour yourself and appreciate your efforts and do not become frustrated. Keep at one habit until it becomes easier. Keep at it, and do not give up.

We cannot avoid everything we want to change. Sometimes we have to face our own selves and ignore your self-defenses in order to expand your perspective. In time, you will know your threshold for change and how to handle that change you want. Give yourself the opportunity to persist and persevere through your changes. You will progress even if those steps are small. The secret is to be honest with yourself and to take measured steps as you quietly make progress.

(Note: I will be continue on with Part III of the Habit Exercise in the upcoming blogs for those who have already started.)

Each promise of a new day brings the gift of renewed promise and opportunity as you continue on your path of your positive change.