Bad habits versus old habits
Atomic Habits by James Clear suggests choosing new behaviors to replace the ones we’d like to change.
I’m careful here to write that I’m changing “old habits” instead of “bad habits” because shopping is not inherently “bad.” We need to buy things. We need to exchange money for goods. My problem has become the fact that I shop without thinking about it. And this behavior no longer serves me. Mindless, unintentional buying is not serving me or my family.
an average day; an average OCCURRENCE
Today, a very typical occurrence unfolded: I found a few extra minutes baked into my day. I left a meeting and began heading downtown for the next. I found a 15-minute gap of time turn into 30 when my meeting was delayed. I like to maximize my time and always look for something to do. A standard practice has been finding a sweet little coffee shop for a cup of tea or a quick snack.
noticing the habit is the first step
I don’t know why my mind automatically searches for something to buy, but it does.
Why not just sit for a moment? Why not meditate or take in the peace of a few quiet minutes? Why not send an email or listen to a podcast? There are virtually a dozen better ways to spend my time.
But I never even thought about it.
Now that I’ve set the intention to figure out when I do specific things and why I do them, here’s what I’m learning:
- I like to fill my time
- I like to feel productive
- I like to support local shops
- I can enjoy a donut or croissant almost any time of day
- These things usually turn me on to stopping at a local cafe
Just because these things are true about me does not mean I need to buy something whenever I have a free moment.
The next step is figuring out what else I can do with unexpected free time.
replacement behaviors
If I’m looking to swap out or exchange behaviors, here are a few options that can work for me:
- listen to music
- take a walk
- do a few squats (I mean, I’m usually in yoga pants anyway, right?)
- call/text a friend
- meditate
today’s new behavior
So what did I do today? I took a walk! I found myself driving by one of my favorite spots for a hike and took advantage. I parked the car and gave myself a 10 minute power walk. I’m not sure what I’ll do next time, but when opportunity strikes, I have a list prepared. Being ready for the next moment is a step in the right direction.
How is the challenge going for you? Are you seeing value in this change-up? Fill me in and tell me if you’re trying out new replacement behaviors or habits that can help you change!
As always, namaste every day.
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4 the Love of Peace 