Actions that are repeated over time gradually become habits, taking on a curious life of their own.

Habits are automated behaviors. Many of the habits we live with are efficient ways of behaving, saving us time and energy. Some habits promote health, while others can destroy it, severely impacting our level of wellness.

Think about it for a second: When you first learn to tie your shoes, it takes a conscious effort. As you practice this skill, it becomes a habit—something you can do easily and automatically, even while thinking of other things. When was the last time you thought about how to tie your shoe?

In his book "The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business," Charles Duhigg finds that “40-45% of the decisions we make every day are habits.”

So, what if you could shift some of your habits?

Let's explore!

What is one habit you consistently do that is currently self-defeating that you would like to change? One of the first steps in changing habits is stepping back and identifying your self-defeating habits. Habit change is not just an event; it’s a process.

Interested in some resources? Here are my top 3 favorite books on learning about the science of habit change:

1. Tiny Habits: The Small Changes That Change Everything by BJ Fogg PhD

2. The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business by Charles Duhigg

3. Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones by James Clear

Share with me the books that inspire you to make positive changes. 

And, YES, I “listen” to my books. So am I allowed to say I ‘read’ them. LOL

Let me know your opinion. I know you have one.

Here is a challenge for you should you choose to accept:

Before next week, think about two new habits you wish to build on and two habits that are getting in the way of you living to your potential.

Not sure where to start? Here’s one I love that introduces the science of gratitude:

Each night, when you go to bed, think of three things in your day that made you happy or that you are thankful for—those micro-moments of happiness or glimmers.

These little moments are referred to as "glimmers." They are the small moments that make us feel a sense of calm, connection, peace, and safety. They are the little things we notice that instantly elevate our mood, even when we are feeling down or are in the midst of a bad day.

For example:

• My dog's excitement when I get home

• The ladybugs in my garden

• The smell of coffee first thing in the morning

Why focus on glimmers?

Build Resilience – Glimmers counteract negative stress responses that so often color the days of people who are living in a chronic state of stress. 

Promote Healing—As you add glimmers to your recovery toolbox, you’ll learn to regulate emotions and calm your nervous system, which is essential to recovering from burnout.

Cultivate Optimism – Looking for positive moments in life will naturally lead to a more optimistic mindset as you train yourself to notice the good in everything around you. 

Over time, you’ll find your brain being trained to seek out moments of joy in every situation, leading to a more peaceful way of being in the world.

Find those glimmers. Let’t make it a habit.