Emotions and habits

Do you eat unhealthy food when you feel sad or depressed? Do you go shopping for hours when you feel lonely and troubled? Do you play games over night when you are stressed or bored?

These habits triggered by our emotions are often the most difficult for us to break because we are simply unaware of the true reason why we have them. Even when we do identify the emotional reason behind, your emotion will most likely take control when you're in the moment, all your attention is focused on feeling better and your habitual belief is that the distractive behavior makes you feel better.

Catch yourself doing it.
Keep a log of the things you regretted doing. Like the $300 dress you have never and will never wear. The hours spent on the meaningless activities like watching soap opera or playing games. Ignoring the problem will not make it go away. Face it before you can start work on it.

For each bad habit, find a healthier alternative.
Go exercise. Remember the light moments after your workout? You feel energized and young. Read a book, find a topic you enjoy or explore a wide range of subjects. Spend some time with your friends and family. All these are good habits that enrich you, mentally and physically.

Reduce the exposure to the old habits.
Keep away from the places and things related to the bad habits. Do not stop at the fast food restaurants and through away their fliers. Don't stock up soft drinks and cakes in your fridge. If you have to go shopping, go 30 minutes before the store closes. This limit your time spent and you'll be more focused in getting what you really need.

Keep the good habit for 30 days. Be a creator of your habit, not just a creature of it.

(photo by nickdamico)