HOW TO CHANGE A HABIT

We all have good and bad habits. Why does it seem impossible to change the bad ones no matter how hard we try? This is not for lack of will power but rather because habit formation involves multiple parts of the brain. So in order to change a habit there are specific calculated steps needed. Here are a few tips that can help you with those habits that you want to change in your life.

GET SPECIFIC

Find out exactly what you want to change. Do not try to change too much all at once. This is the reason why some diets fail since the goal is too broad - “try to eat better”. Start with a general goal and narrow it down to something achievable. Then change one thing at a time.

PREPARE YOURSELF FOR SUCCESS

Your environment sets certain habits thought out the day like washing your hands after you use the bathroom or locking the door when you leave the house. So your environment should help you with your goal. To help you do this you need to prepare ahead of time before you need to achieve the goal. Don’t wait to the last minute. For example if you want to be successful with your diet have meals prepared ahead of time to avoid being lazy and grabbing fast food takeout. If you want to improve your oral hygiene by flossing have floss readily available in multiple areas of your house like the shower, near your computer or night table.

MAKE YOURSELF ACCOUNTABLE

We know that enlisting the help of a buddy makes you more accountable for your actions. Letting others know what you are planning to change will allow them to check up on you and help you achieve your goals. So get the help of your friends and family to help you achieve your goal.

TIE YOUR NEW HABIT TO SOMETHING ELSE

Habits are part of our daily routine and are done with other things we don’t even realize we are doing. This can make breaking a bad habit much more difficult. Think about any association you have and changing it. For example if you smoke with your coffee each morning maybe change your coffee to a tea and see if you can break the association.

Humans are creatures of habit. Routines give us a sense of calm so its no wonder its hard to change habits that we know are bad. BUT you can do it, I know you can.

So the next time you are at our office and your are reminded to add flossing to your daily hygiene routine try these few steps to help conquer the good habit and achieve improved oral health.

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