Making changes in one’s life is something most people want at the start of a new year. Whether it is getting rid of bad habits or starting good ones, many want to better themselves.
Although changing behaviors is never easy, one should consider several factors.
The first thing to remember upon embarking on change is to be optimistic. Having a positive attitude will not only make it easier to stick to a plan, it will also make the process easier. A negative attitude will only prevent success.
One should also remember that real, lasting changes take time.
Actual change is not something easy. One must be willing to work for it. Having consistent motivation and willingness to follow through on goals is absolutely necessary to accomplish any measure of change.
If it took years to put on those annoying extra pounds, it won’t be easy to lose the weight in a few weeks or even a few months. If one plans to lose weight, one must commit to the goal and go through the process with patience and determination.
If one plans to get better grades, she must take all of the necessary measures to make that goal a reality: studying more seriously, making a real effort and going for tutoring.
Changing a bad habit or creating a new one also needs positive reinforcement. Rewarding oneself for doing the desired behavior will cause said behavior to be repeated. Likewise, if one is trying to stop a behavior, rewarding oneself for not indulging in the habit will have the same effect as rewarding a good behavior.
Reinforcement is the process that allows people to learn a behavior in the first place. Thus, repeated practice will certainly work when used purposefully in combination with motivation and a positive attitude.
To make a successful change, one should also consider a mentor. Having a personal guide or one who has experience making the same kind of change would work as a good example. A mentor who can give tips about the best and most effective ways to make a change is useful too because she can also be a part of one’s support system.
Having a support system is key to making meaningful changes. Supporters, be they family, friends or mentors, will help reinforce the positive behaviors and be good motivators, as well as keep one on track when the going gets tough. Supporters will make the change process more enjoyable by reminding one of the goal as well as helping to maintain a positive attitude.
Even with all these tips, one thing is certain: one must want to change and be committed to doing so.
Finally, in making lasting changes in one’s life, one should always stay focused on the goal. Being distracted by fears will lead one away from the path to change. Incorporating various methods of positivity and reinforcement will help one to keep focus and lead to a happier, healthier life and successful change in behavior.
