7 Helpful Habits Worth Creating

Creating and sticking to a new habit usually takes around 66 days, according to recent studies.
It can seem like a long time but for me at least, after week three, it becomes part of my everyday life. While everyone’s different, this is the time of year that habitually, new habits are considered, evaluated and implemented.
If you’re looking for some to add to the consideration list, here’s a few worth thinking about.

Slowing down social media
There’s so much noise between all the platforms and it’s easy to lose track of time wandering through the labyrinth of apps. Instead of doing a full cleanse of these apps, consider a gradual reduction in usage, starting with 10 minutes per day. Add a few minutes to that every five days and you’ll strategically and sustainably spend less time on these apps.
For those who want a stronger reduction, up it to a 50% reduction from your daily usage.

Slashing screen time
Carrying on the aforementioned, an overall reduction in screen time is increasing in popularity.
Yes, smartphones are an integral aspect of our lives as we have a world of information in our proverbial pockets. However, turning off notifications, setting a no-phone-zone (bedrooms, bathrooms, etc.) and doing other activities can help ease the transition. Plus, it could possibly reduce eye strain.

Exercise
I’m cautiously adding this one as it’s a very subjective topic and will only include what I do.
My mentality of “being in motion” has made it easier for me to exercise. Maybe it’s the stigma of the word “exercise” but from parking a bit further from wherever I’m going to taking a few minutes of steps every 2 hours at home, it’s certainly helped.

Saying no
With thousands of articles on how to and the benefits of saying no. It’s a challenge as there’s a sense of letting someone down, especially family or friends. However, the psychology of creating this habit involves in depth research and plenty of practice.
I wish I learned the “you can’t do it all” lesson in my 20’s; I’d have started saying no much earlier.
I’m better at saying no but still find myself not doing it as often as I want to. It’s in my “lifelong commitment” column though.

Journaling
Writing down your thoughts, feelings and emotions can be cathartic. It can occupy a few minutes or an hour of your day, it’s completely yours, and you can use it to both evaluate your past, monitor your progress and plan for your future.
It’s thoroughly private and a strong tool for self-reflection.
While not for everyone, many of those who do utilize this habit fully endorse it.

Dollars and sense
I was due for a pun…
Most budgets are monthly exercises. Consider monitoring it weekly as there are variables that can impact your bottom line. Whether it’s gas, food, utilities, recreation or anything else, it’s a good habit to always know where your money is and what it’s doing for you.
Make adjustments as needed but the first step is awareness, which to me, is best done weekly. 

Make time for yourself
Another habit I wish I’d started earlier is making time for myself. It’s difficult to carve out time in a busy schedule that can already be overwhelming.
It truly doesn’t matter what you do with this time - it’s yours to do what makes you happy.
Whether it’s reading Modern Mississauga, meditating, journaling, going for a drive or anything else, making time to do things that make you happy is integral for a balanced life.Yet another habit learned too late in life but am happy I have now.
It’s definitely better late than never.