Five Habits That Changed My Life

I’ve been on a growth journey for three and a half years. Throughout that journey, I’ve developed habits and routines that have drastically transformed my life. Change isn’t always easy, and sometimes it requires being intentional and very consistent. It’s certainly been a process for me and a test of my will and strength, but that’s what any change worth having requires. In his book Atomic Habits, James Clear states that “the most practical way to change who you are is to change what you do.” I knew nothing would change if I didn’t change my actions. Therefore, once I reached this conclusion, I started to make tiny changes in my daily routine that would eventually yield significant results. In this article, I will talk about five habits that have changed my life and helped me become a healthier, more mindful version of myself. I love this quote by Brendon Burchard; it summarizes how a habit develops until it becomes part of who you are. “First, it is an intention. Then a behavior. Then a habit. Then a practice. Then a second nature. Then it is simply who you are” — Brendon Burchard.

What Is A Habit and Why Are Habits Important?

The first book I read on my journey of growth and self-discovery was Atomic Habits. This book inspired me to change my life and live more intentionally. In the book, James Clear describes a habit as “a behavior repeated enough times to become automatic.” He also states that “habits matter because they help you become the type of person you wish to be; they can change your beliefs about yourself.” Related Article: Five Habits That Improved My Life

Five Habits That Changed My Life

Prayer

Since I was saved over two years ago, I’ve prioritized prayer in my daily routine. In the past, I’d always struggled to pray consistently. But what I love about prayer is that it doesn’t require anything fancy. You can pray anytime and anywhere, and God still hears you because prayer is a conversation between you and God. He knows our hearts, He listens, and He cares for us. Since prioritizing prayer, I’ve experienced more of God’s peace, joy, and love. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-17 says, “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”

Gratitude

When life gets busy, taking time to reflect on what you are grateful for can be an impactful way to calm your mind and body. One of my favorite ways I’ve practiced gratitude for the last two years is by writing in my gratitude journal. I like to write about at least one good thing that happened in my day. Then, I also write about one thing I’m praying for and praising God for. Gratitude helps you remember that no matter how rough the day was, there is always something to be grateful for. There are several ways to express gratitude. One could text a friend, volunteer in your local community, or compliment someone. Philippians 4:6 says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” God knows what we need before we ask Him. Sometimes, being grateful to be alive and healthy goes a long way.

Walking

Walking outside has recently become my favorite outdoor activity. I love walking. Whenever the weather allows, and even when it doesn’t, I get outside and exercise daily. When I started walking, I mainly walked because I wanted to lose weight, but even since reaching my weight goal, I still walk every day because I love it, and I know it’s good for my health. Walking has many benefits, such as improved mood and heart health, reduced stress, and improved sleep. I’m happy to say I’ve experienced these benefits and more since I started walking every day.

Learning

Continuous learning is essential for a good quality of life. After I graduated, I didn’t make it a priority to continue learning and growing my mind. A couple of years passed before I realized what a mistake that was. There’s a famous saying that reading is to the mind like exercise is to the body. We must constantly feed our minds and learn new things to feel alive because once you stop learning, you start dying. When I started my growth journey, my first action was to start reading books; at the same time, I was growing my faith by reading and listening to God’s word. I also invested in courses and attended trainings and seminars. Renewing my mind helped me eventually grow out of unhealthy habits.

Writing

Writing has been a form of expression and self-discovery for me. Since I started my blog, I’ve learned so much about myself, others, and the world around me. Blogging has helped me grow in my writing skills and has allowed me to creatively share my thoughts and ideas and what I’m learning with others. We all have a story; blogging has been a powerful tool that’s allowed me to share mine. Furthermore, writing about what I’m learning helps me learn the content faster. I plan to blog for as long as possible and am excited to continue learning and growing in my craft.

Final Thoughts

If you want to change your life, start by changing your thinking, take it a step further, and change what you do daily. “The secret to your success is hidden in your daily routine” — John Maxwell. “If nothing changes, then nothing changes” — Courtney C. Stevens. In Atomic Habits, James Clear says, “We don’t change by snapping our fingers and deciding to become someone entirely new. We change bit by bit, day by day, habit by habit.” Start practicing one new habit and take it one day at a time. Trying to change too many habits at once is a recipe for failure. Give yourself the grace to make mistakes, and believe that change is possible with enough time and consistency.