I recently shared my evening routine here. Creating something more structured at night has been a goal of mine for awhile. It has taken me three months to really create a rhythm for “normal” evenings and feel like I have some consistency. Implementing any type of habit or routine can be challenging, and at times overwhelming. I have shared 5 tips to create new habits you can read more about here.
I thought I would share some thoughts on the concept of “habit stacking” and what has worked for me. Habit stacking is basically taking the habits you already do and adding on a desired or new habit to the existing. For example, if I want to be more consistent with my skin care I would stack my skin care immediately after my shower. It is designed to help prevent the overwhelming feeling when creating something new because you are attaching it to something you already have in place.
This is a great concept and in theory allows success when creating a habit. Personally, I have found the best way for me to create consistency is to become successful in one habit and then stack or add on a new one. I have learned that everything takes time so I need to start something new with realistic expectations and work on one chunk at a time.
Another thing that I respond to is setting boundaries for myself. For example, I set a 9pm boundary to turn off screens and start my shower, skin care, and reading. I also set a bed time boundary to have a consistent bed time, as well as give my body adequate rest.
If there is one thing I have learned, it is that there is no “one method” fits all approach. I think it is important to learn and understand the tools needed for change and make them applicable for your personal life. This truly can be across any area and is so important when changing or implementing an behavior.
I would love to know anything that works well for you!
As always, sending light and love.
Blessings,
Jac
The Bridwells 