Much is written this time of year about setting goals and changing habits. The focus is striving toward something that will make your life “better”. I am an advocate of personal development and join in the annual quest to embrace the year ahead.
In fact, yesterday, I listened to an episode of the Lazy Genius Podcast titled “How to Lazy Genius Your Habits”. The episode was a great summary of techniques to use if you are looking to add or subtract habits from your routines. I would recommend a listen.
What got me thinking in another direction was the definition of a habit that she provided. Straight from the Oxford Language dictionary, a habit is “a settled or regular tendency or practice, especially one that is hard to give up”. This definition provides the space for the habit to either be a positive or negative.
Our natural approach to habits, especially in January, is to remove those that are negative and add new ones that are positive.
My Perspective – Note the Habits You Love
In the definition of a habit, the word “settled” and the idea of “hard to give up” brought to mind the habits in my routines that I love. This had me wondering why we don’t occasionally step back and just celebrate the habits we enjoy most.
I knew immediately what one of my favorites would be, but what if I were to consider my top 3? What would end up on this. Here are the three that make me feel settled and would be hard to give up.
The First Coffee of the Day – My first cup of coffee in the morning is a bullet coffee. Warm, frothy, and feels like a hug to start the day. Always at the same point in my morning routine.
Walk Outdoors – Every day, I strive to go for a walk outdoors. This happens about 90% of my days. The walks rejuvenate me mid-afternoon. As I walk, ideas flow.
Photo a Day – This is the habit that sometimes challenges me but brings joy that lasts. Some days I’m into the photo and other days a bit less. At the end of the year, I have a wonderful collection that reminds me of the little moments of my life that I might otherwise have forgotten.
This was a great exercise to consciously think about and celebrate the daily rituals that bring me joy.
Your Turn
Which of your habits bring you joy?
Of your top three, which one would you struggle most to give up?
How might you ensure you enjoy this set of habits to their fullest each day?