Turning It Around: Stop Indulging in These 5 Bad Habits and Do These 5 Things Instead

Repeat: Do These 5 Things Instead

Human beings are not perfect and have many flaws and bad habits they indulge in. Some of these habits are not detrimental to their health, but many are. Quitting a bad habit is not easy, but it can be done. Below is a closer look at five bad habits, how to overcome them, and examples of what to do instead.

Quit Smoking

A bad habit many people get addicted to is smoking. Smoking is horrible for many reasons, but most importantly it can lead to lung cancer and other health conditions. It is hard to break the habit because of the nicotine found in cigarettes. However, with a bit of work and dedication, you can kick the habit.

First, it is important to identify the triggers that prompt you to pick up a cigarette. For example, stress, going out with friends, the need to pair smoking with a cup of coffee in the morning, and so on. Once you have identified the triggers, come up with a positive habit that you will do instead. For example, deep breathing, exercise, reading a book (if so, turn to AlKeyTAB), meditation, organising, and so much more.

 

Indulging in Food

For many people, food is a sign of comfort. When they are stressed, sad, or mad, many people turn to food to make them feel better. Unfortunately, this is only a short-term fix, and consuming large amounts of unhealthy foods is not good for you.

When this occurs, take a deep breath and avoid grabbing food right away. Instead, count to ten and drink a glass of water. Take some time to reflect on your situation and what is making you turn to unhealthy and processed foods.

Taking the time to realize food is not the answer will help you come up with a better coping mechanism. For example, take a walk outside, read something inspirational, and so on.

Impulse Purchasing

Another bad habit people tend to do is to shop when feeling stressed out. Impulse buying is a bad habit, mostly for financial reasons. Instead, turn to a friend or a loved one for support when you feel like you need to buy something expensive. You could also take a walk or meet a friend for coffee, lunch, or dinner.

 

Cluttering the Home

Many people clutter the home because they do not take the time they need to put things back where they got it from. Time after time, this leads to a very messy and unorganised home. Fortunately, there is an easy solution for that, and that is to clean up as you go. It is much easier to clean up one or two items instead of letting things accumulate into a much bigger mess.

 

Eating Out Often

Visiting restaurants or ordering carry-out multiple times throughout the week is not a great option for your health or finances. Instead, try coming up with a weekly menu plan that your family helps with. This way, everyone has a say in the food options as well as helping in the preparation of the meals.

Everyone has bad habits they have developed over the years. Luckily, with a little bit of work and determination, bad habits can be broken. Don’t worry if you can’t break bad habits overnight, as you are not expected to do so. Instead, take it day by day and improve yourself slowly.