The word “habit” often has an undeserved negative connotation. Perhaps this is because negative definitions stick with us longer than positive ones.
But “habit” is not a dirty word. As a matter of fact, we should focus on forming good habits while at the same time eliminating the bad ones from our lives. Of course, we also have harmless habits that we might be better off to leave alone.
Habits can organize our lives, providing the structure on which to anchor our lives. You may have heard that it takes a few weeks or a few dozen repetitions to form a habit. But in reality, the amount of time and repetitions varies according to the habit itself, as well as the individual and his or her motivations and personality types and motivations. Just keep in mind that it takes a certain number of repetitions and time to ground a habit into a person.
Think about what you consider important, and in regards to these matters of importance, what you wish were a matter of habit for you. Then implement them into your day. Once you become used to doing them, they provide a foundation for you.
Bad habits keep us from reaching our full potential. Think of your bad habits as a barrier between you and the life you were meant to live. Whatever your bad habits may be, consider the harm they cause, and the benefits of eliminating them and replacing them with good habits.
Relinquish your bad habits by taking small positive steps geared towards implementation on a larger scale. The feeling associated with the new habit will motivate you towards to the same thing on a daily basis. Small successes can lead to incredibly huge power and successes.
As for harmless habits, they are a battle not worth fighting. With all the other things we need to deal with, manage, and change, there are some things we should simply leave alone.