Changing my daily habits is what has led me to the most growth in my life, and has completely transformed my family, my business, and my outlook on life. As I have implemented many small changes, which when added up, amount to a significant shift in the way that I do everything.
For instance, rather than spending 4 hours writing a blog post when I happen to have that block of time, I have set up 20-minute time blocks each day to write at 9am every morning. I do this every day at the same time, in the same place to ensure that the habit sticks and becomes part of my routine and I begin to do it without a reminder – like I’m on autopilot.
It’s natural for your brain to operate on autopilot sometimes. If you had to stop and think about each daily decision, it would be difficult to get much done. That’s one reason why habits are so important.
Habits are also automatic, and repetition makes them stronger. As long as your habits contribute to your wellbeing, that’s a formula for success. However, your habits can hold you back if they clash with your true interests.
Changing a habit can be challenging, but practices like meditation can help. Learn how to apply mindfulness to these forming habits.
The first step to forming a new meditative habit is to build self-awareness.
Here is my list of 10 meditative daily habits that will change your life for the better.
1. Scan your body
Your mental and spiritual well-being has a significant impact on your physical health. Breathe deeply and look head to toe for any areas of tension or discomfort.
2. Clear your head
Put aside your to-do list and daily concerns. Notice what is on your mind without making judgments. Let your thoughts go like clouds floating across the sky.
3. Turn inwards
Shift your attention toward your breath and your heart. Try to connect with yourself as a being that is independent of your passing thoughts. View yourself with curiosity and compassion.
4. Keep a journal
You probably spend most of your time working or with other people, so writing in a journal may help you to connect with yourself throughout the day. Notice the habits you want to change and focus on more effective substitutions.
5. Practice gratitude
Practicing thankfulness is an incredibly powerful way of redirecting your energy outwards. Gratitude lowers stress, takes the focus off of your problems and helps you focus on what is most important in your life.
6. Set priorities
You’ll probably make more progress trying to change one or two habits at a time. You could start with the ones that have the most impact on your experiences. On the other hand, you could also build momentum by beginning with something modest that will give you an easy victory.
7. Think long-term
While you may feel inspired now, that enthusiasm could wane when you run into obstacles. Identify the reasons for change that resonate most deeply for you. That way you’ll be able to call on them when you are feeling discouraged.
8. Use affirmations.
Ongoing reinforcement helps, too. Read inspirational texts for ideas or write your own brief statements that you can repeat to yourself. They can be about specific topics or anything that gives you energy.
9. Seek support.
While you might think of meditation as a solitary practice, sitting with others can make your efforts more powerful. Ask for the help you need from your spiritual community, family, and friends.
10. Create resolutions
End your meditation session with a concrete plan of action. Commit to taking a specific step toward replacing an old habit with more positive behavior.
11. Be realistic.
Avoiding sweets for the rest of your life could be more than you can handle. Start with resolutions you can fulfill even if that means taking it a few hours at a time.
12. Examine triggers.
To stick with your resolutions, you’ll probably need to be familiar with the events that trigger your old habits. For example, if you can catch yourself early when you’re about to nag your children, you can communicate more assertively and effectively instead.
Habits actually change your brain over time. Congratulate yourself for noticing when you regress and keep moving forward.
Many experts believe that 45% or more of our daily behavior is habitual.
Transforming your habit energy through meditation and other mindfulness practices can change your life and help you create a brighter future for yourself.