Starting something new is relatively easy. Then, comes the next phase. Very few people maintain this “new” thing that they start. Sure, willpower will get you far but it only lasts so long. Even if we try making this new thing a habit, let’s say reading before bed, it’s hard to keep it going and eventually we forget about doing it completely and go back to our usual ways.

So why is it that no matter how hard we try, most of us end up back to “normal”? That’s because what we are trying to do is create habit patterns. But that’s not what we normally do so our subconscious mind is scared and confused as to why we are suddenly changing, so it’s just trying to bring us back to normal. 

So back to what I was saying, we get the ball rolling the once, then it stops. So what do we do? 

Well, simply try and try again. Although, I must admit it may not be as easy as the first time. And this will probably not be the last time either, but eventually we’ll all get good at making habit patterns and keeping them.

I have this horrible habit of not exercising. And for years I’ve tried running on the treadmill but I’d do so for a week but then never do so for a year! So I’ve now tried doing like a few sit ups a day. That’s it. Not much but it’s something. Even then I could stop! Why? I had a busy week where I didn’t exercise at all and when the next week came, I was completely lazy to even think about it. But guess what again? I still dragged myself. Here’s where you can use willpower.

One thing I’ve learnt is to be patient with yourself. Yes, it can be frustrating when things don’t go your way, but with time, everything will work out. No point getting upset with yourself and feeling guilty. You’d just be wasting a lot of energy by starting far too many negative cycles. 

So try to do your best, just be persistent, keep the ball rolling and eventually it will continue on its own.

– Heerraa