The online version of Success brims with helpful articles, too. "Tiny Habits" by Jennifer Chang (article is linked) made me pause in a good way. In it, Jennifer shares how she was unsuccessful at one simple goal--flossing her teeth--until she tried the Tiny Habits method.
Maybe you're great at flossing. But what about drinking eight glasses of water a day? Or jogging for thirty minutes? Or writing five hundred words? Sure, these goals sound simple, but for most people, actually sticking to these tasks is complex, difficult.
If we've tried and failed at a goal in the past, how can we make it a habit now? Enter Tiny Habits.
Based on the research of Professor BJ Fogg, Ph.D., Tiny Habits involves starting small, finding an anchor to act as a trigger for your new behavior, and celebrating immediately.
For example, if you want to drink more water throughout the day, your small start might be to fill a glass of water. The anchor to trigger it? Filling the glass whenever you get up to use the restroom. If your glass is still full when you get up, you'll be reminded to drink the water. Pat yourself on the back each time you fill that glass!
Since I'm on a mini-health kick, I'd like to add small strength moves to my day. I'm going to add a 15-second plank to my routine before I check my e-mails.
Small goal? 15-second plank.
The trigger? The "Mail" button will remind me of my goal.
Celebrate? A wink, fist-pump, big smile? I don't know! I guess I'll find out!
For more information on incorporating Tiny Habits, read Jennifer Chang's article, "5 Tips for Turning Your Tiny Habits Into Big Results," and check out the website of Professor BJ Hoff, Ph.D.
What simple goal has been eluding you? Is there a Tiny Habit you could start?
Have a lovely weekend!
