Track it
A way to help maintain a new habit or behavior is by intentionally tracking your progress.
For example:
-Trying to deepen friendships? Track how often you intentionally connect with someone
-Increase water intake? Track daily water intake
-Improve quantity of sleep? Track hours each night
-Getting up earlier each morning? Document your wake up time daily
-Intentionally practice gratitude? Track each time you engage in a gratitude practice
Below are a couple of ways you can do the tracking.
Use a habit tracker
There are printable habit trackers you can use or you can draw your own. There are also apps you can download specifically for the purpose of tracking your new habits! Pick which system will work best for you- it does not have to be perfect- it just has to be one that you will actually use.
Make a bullet journal
A bullet journal is a fun way to be creative and also track what’s important to you in life. You can make different designs for important dates, events or dreams. You can create your own habit trackers for your journal or purchase some from creators.
Make a poster for a prime spot in your home
Keep it in your face! Buy a giant poster board (or a small index card if that’s more your style) and place it somewhere you will see everyday; fridge, laptop, car, bathroom mirror. Then you’ll have a nice visual to remind you of your important goal and who you are becoming. And a prompt to use the tracker and fill it in accordingly.
Start a competition with a friend to track habits
Some of us are highly motivated by outer expectations and if that includes you, it may help to invite someone along on the journey with you. Maybe they have a goal they’re trying to hit and you can track them together. If competition gets you motivated, you can throw in a reward for the most consistent.
Make a jar as a reward system
Pick a simple jar, or a glass from your kitchen, and throw in a coin or stone each time you engage in your habit. Set a “winning” amount for yourself and once your jar hits that amount, it’s celebration time!
You can make healthy changes for yourself, you got this!