Transforming My Daily Routine: Bad Habits I Gave Up for Good
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Chapter 1: Breaking Free from Harmful Habits
The self-improvement landscape is often dominated by a focus on relentless hustle and the importance of cultivating positive habits. While the idea of rising at dawn and embarking on a morning run may resonate with some, that’s not the ideal way for me to kick off my day.
There's always potential for increased productivity through better habits. Thus, embracing new routines is essential for reaching our aspirations. I don’t need to delve into "Atomic Habits" to grasp this concept.
Nonetheless, many of us navigate our days with a mix of good and bad habits. Rather than merely adopting new practices, I decided to reflect on those I currently engage in that could benefit from modification or outright elimination. With the limited time I have each day, there surely are tasks I could accomplish more effectively.
Here are several negative habits I’ve chosen to abandon:
Section 1.1: Limiting Smartphone Use
One significant change I made was refraining from checking my phone during the first and last hour of my day. Smartphones can bridge connections with friends, but they can also lead to feelings of isolation. Unless I’m directly communicating with someone, I often feel the latter.
Scrolling through social media can lead to unhealthy comparisons and a sense of dissatisfaction with my own life. I have dreams of living in Bali, enjoying ocean views, but seeing others flaunt their "perfect" lives just before bed or as I wake up can only sow negativity.
Additionally, smartphones are notorious for derailing productivity. The moment I open an app in the morning, I find myself trapped for an hour. To avoid this pitfall, I’ve implemented a rule to keep my phone away during those critical times.
Subsection 1.1.1: The Impact of Social Media
Section 1.2: Ceasing Self-Sabotage
As Jordan Belfort wisely said, “The only thing standing between you and your goal is the story you tell yourself about why you can’t achieve it.” It’s all too easy to fall into the trap of excuses: “I’m too busy,” “I’m too tired,” or “This isn’t the right time.”
I once convinced myself I wasn’t skilled enough to begin writing, but overcoming that mental barrier allowed me to accomplish more. I realized I wasn’t truly too tired; a simple coffee could revive me. I wasn’t too busy; I had time before my commitments. Yes, there will always be superior writers, but that shouldn’t deter me from pursuing my passion now.
While there are moments when fatigue is genuine, after two decades of self-exploration, I can discern between honest feelings and self-deception.
Chapter 2: Mindful Eating Habits
In my early academic and professional life, I developed the habit of eating while working. When hunger strikes, it’s tempting to prepare a quick meal and continue my tasks. However, this habit persists and undermines my well-being.
I’ve since adopted the mindset that mealtimes should serve as opportunities to rejuvenate. Eating while working doesn’t allow my body to properly digest food, often leading to overeating later. Moreover, multitasking during meals yields no real benefits.
Multitasking Is Killing Your Mental Focus
In our quest to accomplish more in less time, we often find ourselves achieving far less.
Now, even on busy workdays, I commit to separating my meals from my work. This practice allows me to return to my tasks with renewed focus, having taken a proper break to eat away from my desk.
Make water your constant companion during work, not your meals.
These are just a few adjustments I’ve integrated into my lifestyle. Sometimes, it’s not solely about adopting new habits but refining existing ones. The small changes I’ve made facilitate tackling challenging tasks more effortlessly. I hope they can benefit you as well.