Tips for Forming New Habits

Motivation gets us started with reaching our goals, but creating habits keeps us going! Whether your goal is to start exercising, practice meditation, or go to sleep at a reasonable time, forming a habit will help your goal become an automatic part of your routine. Our behaviours become habits when they are consistently and frequently done in the same context. 

How can Occupational Therapists (OTs) help with forming and breaking habits?

• OTs can assist you with developing health-promoting daily routines 

• OTs can support you with identifying sources of motivation

• OTs can identify causes of behaviours that are negatively affecting your health or help establish cues that lead to new healthy habits 

Here are some tips for creating new habits: 

• Create specific goals that are meaningful to you. Remind yourself why you want to create this habit. 

• Tell others about your goals. Friends and family can help by providing support and encouragement. 

• Use a habit tracker sheet. This is a great visual that can work to help keep you motivated and accountable. 

• Use cues such as phone alarms, other people, or keeping your tracker sheet in a visible spot as reminders.  

• Add to existing habits. You already have habits built into your everyday routine. Try pairing a new habit with one of these existing ones. 

Remember that creating and getting rid of habits takes time and effort. Stay consistent and remind yourself of the importance and meaning behind your goals!