Micro habits - how to make big Lifestyle Changes in Teeny Tiny Steps

Micro habits - how to make big Lifestyle Changes in Teeny Tiny Steps

Making big changes to your daily routine is not easy. No matter how motivated you are to start running, go to bed on time or eat more healthily, it can be daunting to actually take on such a change and repeat it long enough that it sticks. Micro habits can be a way to take on bigger lifestyle changes in more manageable chunks.

What is a microhabit?

A micro habit is just that: a teeny tiny habit. So small, it doesn’t feel like a big deal to do, so quick, there’s no excuse not to just get it done. Some micro habits are significant on their own, like taking a health-boosting food supplement every day, while others, like meditating for just one minute, or reading just one page of a book every evening, are a great way to establish a habit that you can expand and build on.

How do I pick the right micro habit to start with?

One way to find a micro habit to start with is to take a bigger goal you are working towards, and break it down into the tiniest possible pieces. Want to run a marathon? A good micro habit might be to jog for ten minutes a day. Trying to start a daily meditation practice? Start by taking a few deep breaths for just one minute every day. Want to get back in the habit of reading every night? Commit to reading just one page every evening.

The trick is to find a habit that is so small and so quick to complete, that any excuse not to do it would seem ridiculous. 

I’ve picked my habit, now how do I start?

A teeny tiny habit is pretty easy to forget, so you need to find a cue that will remind you to do the thing you want to do. If your micro habit is drinking a glass of water to start your day, set out the glass the night before in a spot where you won’t miss it in the morning. Put your jar of probiotics tablets beside the coffee machine where you can’t miss it. Set a reminder on your phone to get up and stretch every hour. 

Now celebrate your success!

Even if your little habit doesn’t feel like a big change to your life, it’s important to celebrate your success and reward yourself for completing your habit every time you do it. Sing a celebratory song, do a little dance, or pat yourself on the back. This practice actually re-wires your brain in a sense, as you’ll automatically seek to continue the behaviour that is earning you so much positive feedback.

Small habits lead to big rewards

The success of making a small positive change to your life can lead to successfully making bigger changes. And small changes in several areas all piled on top of each other, can actually result in a whole new lifestyle. So pick a micro habit and get started today!