Here’s a great SlideShare about changing behavior. One thing I love about it is how simple it is.
The first mistake is relying on willpower. Is that ever true! The power of attraction is so much more effective. I can power through short-term, but there’s always a backlash. (Ever been on a diet?) I’m trying to use willpower to get over the habit of using willpower, and that’s not working out too great! 😉
The second is going for change in big leaps instead of baby steps. I think the leaps can happen sometimes if you’re really ready, but generally it’s like trying to eat an elephant in one gulp. I’m constantly reminding myself to take one step at a time. I mean constantly. I get overwhelmed and this gets me grounded and focused.
Oh – I like number four a lot – trying to stop old behaviors instead of creating new ones. I’ve been trying to stop leaving the burner on when I’m through cooking. New behaviors – new behaviors – I changed that to turning the pot handles out when I start and then turning the burner off before I take any food out or move the pan. I turn the handles back in when the burner is off. It’s working! So far…
I encourage you to view the presentation and create your own examples. It’s great stuff.
We really do tend to go about a lot of things just plain backwards!