Building Behavior Change
Change is hard. We are forming new habits, and in some cases, trying to break habits. Habits are the framework of your life. In fact, according to research, close to 43% (a conservative estimate) of what we think, how we act, and what we say falls into the habit category.
Habits are frequently repeated behaviors (often daily), and this repetition adds up to big benefits or big damage in the long run.
Habits are not directly accessible – you can’t immediately create or remove one right now. They are molded over time by repetition.
Know your why.
Let’s face it, you are changing behavior because you want to feel better. Most likely you want to feel healthier and happier, which is defined differently by all of us. It’s important that you identify your personal definition and vision, so you can then adopt specific strategies and habits to be in alignment with that definition/vision.
Many people begin the process of changing habits by focusing on what they want to achieve. According to James Clear, author of Atomic Habits, the alternative is to build “identity-based” habits. With this approach we start by focusing on WHO we wish to become. The ultimate form of intrinsic motivation is when a habit becomes part of your identity. It’s one thing to say “I’m the type of person who wants this…” It’s something very different to say I’m the type of person WHO is this.
The more pride you have in this identity, and how you feel, the more motivated you will be to maintain the habits associated with it.
HOW TO GET THE RESULTS YOU ARE AFTER
What research has found - as we have set goals in the past – is that our results have had very little to do with the goals that we have set – and everything to do with the systems we have followed to achieve our goal. Goals are good for setting direction, but systems are best for making progress.
A System for Results involves habits, strategies, and mindset*
Habits: specific actions you take – your tasks and routines.
Strategies: a collection of habits working together towards results.
Mindset: the way you think, your specific thought patterns.
It’s the synergy of habits, strategies, and mindset working together that’s so powerful.
* Feel Good Effect framework