This information gave me, my clients, and the students I teach a ray of hope. Too often I have set myself up to fail by trying to create a “practice” and form it into a habit. That will never happen. Going to the gym, eating healthy, prayer, time in God’s Word, writing – the list goes on – these actions will never be habits; they are practices that require intention, focus, and energy. This is a relief because in the past I would attempt to make these actions habits…only to fail within a few weeks or months. Then I would go down the shame rabbit hole for my failure. Now, I see that the practices will take commitment, planning, and energy. Hence, managing my energy is key – enough sleep, activity, eating well, and time with people who are truth-tellers as well as supporters – these elements must be addressed for me to practice practices!
Habits, on the other hand, require very little thought or energy. Our brain is so cool!! It develops habits (unfortunately both negative and positive) as a design to conserve energy. The brain uses about 25% of our energy each day – it is BUSY! Hence, it has figured out a way to conserve energy, through habits, to supply us with the energy to focus on more demanding tasks and challenges. How amazing is that?!! This being said, a practice can become habitual…but do not mistake it for a habit.
Suggested Activity: There are 168 hours per week. Track one week of how you spend your time…really track. How much time is spent in sleep, chores, work, errands, scrolling social media, TV, school, grooming, walking doggies, time with friends and family, recreation, exercise, meal prep, etc. Too often people are unaware of how much time they are actually wasting, or by how much they sabotage their energy levels by poor food choices and lack of sleep. Just start with awareness of how you truly spend your time. Then, as you probably know, choose one small action to practice…one that you know you will do at leat 95% of the time. Reps matter more than how long…practice often. This will change your brain!