Replacing bad habits is something most people would probably admit to wanting to do, but some find it very challenging. Habits like smoking and drinking are socially acceptable, yet very destructive. From placing barriers to getting rid of triggers, here are some healthy suggestions.
Make Some Healthier Swaps
Subtle changes can make a big difference when trying to beat a terrible habit. While it may not be the same at first, you can get used to anything. Heroin users replace the drug with methadone to gradually come off this life-destroying drug. However, something like alcohol and smoking can be just as harmful. Something like a prefilled vape kit can replace smoking cigarettes while still being enough to satisfy an urge and gradually come away from nicotine.
Put Up Barriers to the Habit
Being kind to yourself is a great thing in life, but it is possible to be too kind! One of the biggest rewards most people enjoy is indulging in their vices, such as smoking, drinking and even sex. However, too much of anything is usually bad. But there is hope. Alongside making healthier changes, you can create barriers to prevent bad habits. For example, you can set a budget on how much you will spend, decide to go out for just one night or ask someone to hide your vice.
Replacing Bad Habits with Visualisation
In the UK alone, almost 80,000 people per year die from smoking-related illnesses such as lung cancer. Of course, there are tons of healthy habits for a healthier life that you can pick up immediately and change how you live and using visualisation can help you beat an urge:
- Imagine yourself living without the habit and the feeling of health it can provide.
- Envision yourself enjoying life and laughing without a hazardous dependency.
- Focus on your breath and allow the urge to pass while imagining a healthier life.
Identify and Eliminate Triggers
One of the biggest reasons most people indulge in a specific vice or bad habit is because of triggers and association. We all know the comical situation of a cigarette after some time in the sack. But this can be one of the most powerful triggers. Another one is having some beers while watching a football game or something else you enjoy with friends. Identifying these triggers can help you avoid them for positive changes and begin a journey to stop a habit altogether.
Start Small and Improve as You Go
It can be extremely challenging to just quit something you have enjoyed for years. In some cases, such as with alcoholism or certain drugs, it can also be dangerous. If you have an addiction, then gradual removal under medical care is recommended. For other minor vices, such as smoking or even masturbation/sex addiction, begin by reducing how much you engage with them. Say you smoke ten per day, try smoking eight, for a month, then five, and so on.
Summary
Swapping a vice for something a little healthier can be a powerful way of replacing bad habits until you stop completely. You can also use strong visualisation methods to encourage you to stop. If you have an addiction, then you can start small and gradually reduce your exposure.
