Make Changes That Last
There exists a constant, ever-present set of eyes on myself and my habits, and while I’m far from the school of thought that perfect habits are attainable, it’s fairly nice to strive for good ones every now and then. — Erin Loechner
Today, I’m sharing some practical guidelines on how to make changes that last. I think we all attempt to start something. We want to make the effort. We know that in order to develop a new habit or practice in life — that is long term— takes a heavy dose of intention. But it’s still challenging, yes?
Here are 7 tips to be mindful of when it comes to making changes that last.
AND…
one.
COMMITMENT.
Research indicates change will last when:
We expect change.
We know that we will change.
We’re willing to do whatever is necessary to bring lasting change.
Action Step: Are you in this for the long run? Or just for the short term?
two.
MAKE ATTAINABLE GOALS.
If you want to begin the process of making a change that lasts, it’s important to determine precisely what needs to be done + when, where, how this will be carried out.
Action Step. Take the time visualize exactly when & where & what you need to do to make what you want happen.
& remember, SMART goals are: Specific. Measurable. Attainable. Realistic. & within a Timeframe you can accept.
three.
PREVENT THE RELAPSE
Identify high-risk situations. Know what temptations, mindsets, or feelings you might face. Determine coping skills to help you avoid potential problems.
Action Step. What might get in the way? How will you reduce the possibility of returning to old behaviors?
four.
PRACTICE MAKES PROGRESS, THEY SAY.
I’ve read that when a new behavior is practiced to the point it becomes automatic, there is an increased probability that it will persist.
Action Step. What are you going to practice? & How often?
five.
ASSESS EXPECTATIONS UP FRONT.
Rating how likely you are to follow through with an action step is a worth noticing & noting. The higher the rating, the larger the likelihood of success.
Action Step: On a scale of one to ten, how committed are you to following through with your next step?
six.
HAVE A SUPPORT SYSTEM.
Supporters who celebrate short term wins along the way are helpful to have when reaching larger goals.
Action Step: Who can you turn to for encouragement or accountability & to share small victories?
seven.
DIVINE INTERVENTION.
Let’s be real. We will fail to make lasting change. Because we leave it up to our own willpower & that will only take us so far.
The power of God is transformational & brings lasting change. Human effort is limited without Christ. Christ gives us the ultimate strength & wisdom we need for people to experience lasting change. “From His glorious unlimited resources, God will empower you with inner strength through his Holy Spirit.” – Paul
Action Step. Tell God what’s on your heart. Include Him in the process. Trust His favor, strength, help, & energy will come.
Here’s what matters:
Making the effort changes us for the better.
You can choose to do hard things.
Remember it is God who works through you.
What you do matters. Over time, it all adds up.
There’s always plenty of room to grow.
A few resources:
POWERSHEETS: Name & track your yearly, monthly, weekly, & daily goals.
Try tracking your habits using the TALLY APP.
Try this WORKSHEET