by John Hewitt

Created on: February 05, 2010   Last Updated: February 07, 2010

We often think that change is hard and that real, lasting change takes huge amounts of effort and years of dedication. Well it takes just 12 weeks to form a new habit so let us look at some basic habit changes we can implement so that we can change our life for the better in just 12 weeks!

Health

We all know what is good for us and what we need to cut back on; give yourself 12 weeks to cut those cravings for sugar and caffeine etc. and start a new habit of healthy eating. After the 12 weeks your new way of eating will be second nature and as you stock up on the vegetables and cut back on the bad fats and processed foods you will start to feel much better. Also start a simple exercise plan. Walking is one of the best exercises you can do so why not give yourself 12 weeks to get into a new habit of daily walking.

Money

If you are overspending and finding that debt is piling up then go on a budget. It may be hard at the beginning but it will only take 12 weeks to get that budget on track and from there you can start to build up a solid foundation of stable personal finance.

Spirituality

A regular routine of spiritual practice works wonders. Whether you are meditating, praying, lighting candles and incense or merely contemplating rainbows, it is important that you take regular time to go beyond purely physical focus and open up to other possibilities. Even if you have no religious or spiritual belief of any kind you can still marvel at nature or walk in the fresh air and simply enjoy the planet as something bigger than yourself. Again try this for 12 weeks and it will become a great habit.

You Time

This in a way is similar to the point above and yet this really is taking a moment to indulge in something that pleases you. It may be painting, bird watching, baking cookies (healthy ones!), or reading a book. Whatever it is that you enjoy just make sure that you devote some time each day just for yourself. In 12 weeks this will be another habit.

Giving

To give is a way to extend the self and extending the self automatically makes one feel better. How one gives is dependent upon circumstances but a few ideas could be:

visiting an elderly person in your town donating your professional services to a good cause volunteering setting up a regular bank payment to a charity using your hobby to help a charity or cause

After 12 weeks you will have the habit of giving of the self and will not want to give it up!

These are five areas of your life that can be enhanced in just 12 weeks. Do not worry about the time, or the lack of it, just taking a few minutes each day to work on these areas is enough to begin with. You can reduce the amount of time that you watch television, or instead of another shopping trip take some time out to volunteer. If you want to do something you will always find the time.

Remember it takes 12 weeks to start a new habit so give yourself 12 weeks to rearrange your priorities and have a better life in 12 weeks.

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