Webster defines habit as an acquired mode of behavior that has become nearly or completely involuntary. It can also be defined as an addiction. Habits can be positive, such as remembering to wash your hands after using the bathroom or harmful, such as smoking cigarettes with every cup of coffee. Habits are done without an individual even being aware that the action or behavior has occurred. When was the last time you thought about how to tie your shoe, brush your teeth, or parallel park the car? You completed those tasks without hesitation or preparation.
Steven Covey even authored a book about habits, “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People”. The book gave insight into how personal change could be accomplished. His book has been used by companies and leadership teams around the world. I read this book many years ago as part of a family medicine management course and was most impressed with Habit 7: “Sharpen the Saw, Principals of Self Renewal.” As we begin 2013, let’s look into this principal and glean from it some tools to make this year the most powerful one yet!
If you were like me, in 2012 you had a lot going on. I worked a full time job which equated to about 50 plus hours a week, participated in various civic organizations, volunteered at my kids’ school, chauffeured the kids to their extra-curricular activities, cooked, cleaned, and sometimes put my own personal needs last on the list. Does that schedule sound familiar to any of you?
In 2012, I often found myself rescheduling doctor’s appointments because they conflicted with my work schedule. I would not treat myself to a massage because I told myself I should use that money to purchase the kids a new outfit or treat them to dinner. Instead of going to book club and hanging out with my friends who were engaging in stimulating conversation, I opted to sit on the couch and eat popcorn. Instead of accepting the proposal of my husband to see the latest movie, I chose to put on my fluffy pajamas and go to bed early. And I am certain that I was not the only person in 2012 that did a poor job of making themselves their number one priority!
So before we began another year of idle promises, we must understand the different dimensions of our rejuvenation and renewal: spiritual, physical, social/emotional, and mental.
First, we have to take time and simply give thanks. The simple act of acknowledging that we did not accomplish all that we have by ourselves nor did we survive those trials and tribulations without the awesome creator is the initial step. After you awaken in the morning, sit quietly for 10-15 minutes. Take a deep breath and think of all the things for which you are grateful. You will then notice that your pulse rate is down and the thought of going to work does not seem as stressful as before.
Second, if we want our mojo back, we have to get a little sweaty! We have to move! We cannot keep thinking that those extra pounds will evaporate or magically disappear. Our bodies were meant for motion. Treat yourself to a line dancing class, learn how to Zumba, join a boxing gym, or play soccer with your grandkids. It doesn’t matter what you do. Just move!
In addition, let’s stop treating our bodies like a Pinto instead of a Mercedes. Would you put cheap gas in luxury vehicle? Would you let just anyone get behind the wheel? Would you neglect to get a tune-up? I doubt it! Therefore, in 2013 let us treat our bodies as the temples for which they were intended. Let us refrain from the quick, no energy processed foods. Let us remind ourselves that not every Tom, Dick, or Jane needs to be handling our temples!
Third, we cannot forget that it is ok to have fun! Just because we have reached adulthood, does not mean that we cannot giggle with friends, have play dates, such as weekend get-a-ways, or plan a scented candle-filled rendezvous with our spouse. As human beings, we crave interaction. Make a new friend. Do something kind for someone un-expectantly and see how good you feel afterwards.
Lastly, take a break from things that will not edify you such as reality TV. Learn a new language. Learn how to play that instrument that you have always wanted to play. Start blogging about issues that matter to our community. Keep your mind sharp.
Please don’t let 2013 be like all of the other years where you start out strong but then quickly give up. Let’s exchange the bad habits of yonder years with habits that will catapult us to a new level of wellness.
Yours in Service,
Denise Hooks-Anderson, M.D.
Assistant Professor
SLUCare Family Medicine
yourhealthmatters@stlamerican.com
