That which we persist in doing becomes easier, not that the task itself has become easier, but that our ability to perform it has improved. Ralph Waldo Emerson
Starting any new behavior isn’t always easy. How many New Years have come and gone where your “resolution” barely lasted through the BCS bowl games?
In my experience, it takes more time than you think to ingrain habits or at least make them your go-to unconscious choice more often than not. Of course it depends on the person and the habit, but consensus seems to be that it takes at least 21 days and even upwards of two months to really instill a new habit. I think that’s why we see programs like Dr. Andrew Weil’s 8 Weeks to Optimum Health prescribing that amount of time to successfully adopt new habits and behaviors.
To some, that may seem like a long time or a big commitment. That’s where the power of persistence comes in. You need to give yourself the time it takes and the time you deserve. Take advantage of tools like writing down your goals and journaling or surrounding yourself with a community that shares your enthusiasm and provides support. But stick to the program as best you can for the prescribed amount of time and you will be truly surprised to learn that Emerson is right!
One year ago next week I decided it was time to make a few changes. With both of my parents battling cancer, I knew I had no time to waste if I wanted to mitigate my chances of going down that same road. I always hated exercise, but I knew it was good for me and I should learn to enjoy it. I decided that I needed to focus my excellent cooking skills on making more healthy dishes from real food, not baking cookies or casseroles. I’d be lying if I said it was easy or all fun. But I was persistent, never gave up, stayed true to my goals. Wrote down what I ate, wrote down when I moved my body … One year later, I genuinely crave a healthy salad or a bowl of fresh fruit. I feel like I’m missing something if I don’t’ get some exercise every day. I’ve lost the equivalent of our dog Roxie on the scale and am able to snowshoe three miles without breaking a sweat – and love it!
Just give it time, be persistent.
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You go girl!!!! That is the essence of the Mental Pilates practice. We are repeaters!!!! It is what we do. We can either be involved in the formation of behavior patterns, or not. If not patterns will form based upon emotional urges which frequently are short-sided and not sustainable or fulfilling. Forming patterns consciously...that allow you to express your natural vitality is the MP goal. Then this vitality is given to others through connection and contribution...and voila.... you experience a deep and genuine sense of fulfillment!!!!
ReplyDeleteLive a vital and fulfilling life!!!
I very much understand what you mean. I've been successful at identifying my reactions which serve me badly, then changing them to viewpoints that work better. But I've been challenged on an issue that keeps coming up. I find myself reacting poorly, revising, and recovering. However, that cycle repeats so it's been difficult to sustain the right balance. I think I've spent so long establishing the original viewpoint that it has become habitual. It will take regular effort to re-establish a better habitual response.
ReplyDeleteThat is right Neil. That is the skill mental pilates is striving for...to be consciously involved in the formation of new patterns...that serve your needs.
ReplyDeleteGood habits are as hard to break as bad habits!!!