Everyone has habits, good and bad, and sometimes it takes the observation of another person to point out something we do repeatedly before we even realize we’ve formed a habit. It’s also very likely that everyone has habits they’d like to establish, but the effort to do so can be daunting and overwhelming.

Our brains have an amazing ability to reorganize themselves, a process known as neuroplasticity. Neural pathways are actually made stronger by repeated behaviors, and habits help us conserve mental energy when routine tasks are automated. Less cognitive energy is required when our behaviors are habitual, because we hardly have to think about performing certain actions.

Forming good habits helps prevent burnout in addition to maintaining our cognitive health. Regular exercise, eating healthy foods, and practicing mindfulness are all excellent habits that are prone to boost brain plasticity significantly. These changes can seem impossible in a world where convenience is often the less-healthier choice, but when we repeatedly make the effort to establish these behaviors, neural pathways are strengthened, making them easier to perform over time. When a new habit is the goal, consistency is key.

New, healthy habits are more likely to form when we start small. Ensuring that goals are attainable and tasks are manageable helps build momentum, while the opposite impedes success. If we fail to set smaller goals in pursuit of a lifestyle change, we are only setting ourselves up for failure and frustration. For tips on setting and achieving goals, read this helpful article from The National Society of Leadership and Success:

https://www.nsls.org/goal-setting-techniques

With consistent habits in place, stress is managed easier due to the structure and predictability that has been established. This emotional resilience is essential for a healthy brain and optimal cognitive function. It also has a positive influence on other aspects of life such as sleep quality, which also plays a large role in brain health. So, what are you waiting for? Healthy habits can be implemented any time, so start now and start small.
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