We do a lot of things out of habit, which is actually a good thing! Doing things out of habit is helpful because it reduces mental effort, increases efficiency, and frees up cognitive resources for more important decisions.
Habits help automate routine tasks, making life easier and less overwhelming. For example, brushing your teeth, exercising regularly, or even organizing your workspace out of habit ensures consistency without requiring constant motivation or willpower.
Good habits can also reinforce positive behaviors, leading to long-term benefits like better health, productivity, and personal growth. On the flip side, being mindful of your habits can help you avoid falling into negative or unproductive routines.
One of the first steps in our Key Habits Program is creating your personalized Habit Inventory. The goal is to identify what I like to call your baseline of behaviors. What do you do out of habit? Where are you operating on auto-pilot?
The next step involves differentiating between behaviors that are helpful and behaviors that might be hindering your progress. What sneaky little habits do you wish you could change?
This is where mindfulness comes in handy.
Even when you're engaging in habitual behaviors that are helpful, adding a touch of mindfulness can bring you into the present moment and make routine tasks more meaningful. Being aware of your daily choices can help you discern which behaviors you want to continue and which ones you wish to reduce.
When you pay attention on purpose, you can fine-tune various aspects of your day in ways that lead to more time, ease, and satisfaction. While operating on auto-pilot can keep life running smoothly, it can also prevent you from making necessary changes.
