In most cases, new habits are successful at first. It’s definitely easier when motivation and enthusiasm are high. However, there are distractions that make compliance more challenging. Vacations, illnesses, and other unforeseen circumstances can result in a few days of non-compliance suddenly turning into weeks.

Consider these strategies to get past the hurdles when implementing your new habits:

1.      Have a contingency plan. If you normally run after work, have a back-up plan in case it’s raining or you have to work late.

• Consider the potential obstacles to each habit and create solutions to deal with them effectively.

• Have a back-up plan ready to go before you need it.

2.      Make a list of your negative triggers. Negative triggers are things that distract you from your new behaviors. It might be a particular friend that focuses on negative topics. Perhaps flipping through the channels before bedtime leads to you watching a movie until 2:00 AM.

3.      Manage your expectations. Expecting too much, too soon, can have negative consequences. It’s not necessary to be perfect. A few slip-ups aren’t reason to get upset and discard your new routine. Expect to experience a few challenges.

• Avoid putting too much pressure on yourself. Giving a task too much emphasis can make it appear less appealing.

4.      Start over even smaller. If you’re consistently struggling, start over at the beginning. But this time, make it easier on yourself. Maybe 30 minutes of exercise is too overwhelming at the beginning. Start with one minute. Even though one minute of exercise doesn’t have a lot of practical value, it makes getting to 2 minutes of exercise a little easier.

• Taking small steps and making adjustments can ensure your long-term success. 

By taking control of your habits, you can reduce stress and increase harmony in your life. Habits are powerful tools of efficiency. Consider how much time you’d lose each day if you had to concentrate on how to drive, tie your shoes, or brush your teeth. We’re able to do these tasks without even thinking about them. Sometimes we can even do other things at the same time.

But our habits can also betray us. Focusing on your struggles rather than finding solutions, staying up too late, and creating distractions are all examples of habits that fail to support peace and happiness.

Add a few positive habits and eliminate a few negative ones. In 30 days, you’ll be well on your way to making a drastic change in your life.