How to stop biting your fingernails

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Biting fingernails is one of those common, but annoying little habits, that are hard to break. But there are a few techniques that can help you break the habit.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

rubber band, or hair band, that fits comfortably around your wrist.
books on self-esteem
bitter finger nail polish

Step1

Realise, that this behavior is usually associated with an underlying issue, such as nervousness, stress, and/or lack of self-esteem. Reading books about these subjects, taking to a therapist or life-coach are ways to work through those underlying issues, and eliminate them.

Step2

Use the rubber band trick! Put a rubber band, or hair band around your wrist, making sure it fits you comfortably and does not cut into your skin or effects your circulation. Every time you catch yourself starting to bite your nails, snap yourself. Do not hurt yourself, but pull hard enough to get your own attention, so that you become aware of the action, and have an opportunity to stop yourself.

Step3

Apply special bitter nail polish to your nails. The repulsing taste, will at least make your action so unpleasant, that you will think twice before putting your fingers into your mouth. Works well with children.

Step4

Get support from friends and family. Tell them about your intention to break this habit, but ask them to just tell you when they see you bite your nails, not to criticize or comment on the behavior. With that support system in place, it is easier to become again aware of your behavior, without feeling embarrassed. That is why establishing rules from the start, is so important.

Tips & Warnings

Remember that developing or changing a habit takes between 14 and 21 days to become a routine. Keeping that in mind, expect for that period of time, to have to focus and adjust your actions.
When you set out to start breaking yourself from this habit, watch your self-talk. You can really set yourself up for failure, by the way you speak about your commitment to adjusting your behavior. Speak to yourself in confidence, and as if you could not fail!