How to Fix Bad Habits

Some bad habits are such a part of our daily lives that it's easy to forget we have them. This chart will remind you of your bad habits and help you get rid of them.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

1. If you can't readily identify (or admit) your bad habits, have a friend or family tell you. You habits tend to stem from psychological, often subconscious motivations, so it's not always easy to pinpoint your own flaws.

2. Think about times with which you might associate your bad habit. Do you smoke when you're hungry or bored? Do you bite your nails when you're nervous? Do you tend to exaggerate in large groups?

3. Find creative and useful ways to curb the habit. Essentially, make a habit out of breaking the habit. Wear gloves if you bite your nails, or chew gum (with your mouth closed) instead. If you smoke because you're bored, fill your day with activity so you don't have time to smoke. If you procrastinate, think about filling out a daily calendar. Do it in advance and keep copies in places you frequent--bedside table, bathroom, car your desk.

4. Have will power. There's no good way to quit doing something if you don't really want to stop. Find determination and follow through with it. If you have that, you'll not likely need anything to trick yourself out of it.