Creating a new habit is easier said than done. Most of our habits are developed slowly over a long period of time, which is why we often don't realise we are doing them. Switching the kettle on when we get in from work can be a habit if done for long enough, or maybe you have a less savoury habit, such as biting your nails. Whatever it is you do, this aspect of your daily life has probably become part of your everyday routine now. Experts claim that it takes around 21 days of repeated behaviour to signal to the brain that a new habit is formed. Many of us try to make major changes to our lives without a structured routine but in many cases this only leads to failure as we slip out of the habit as soon as something comes up and distracts us from said routine. If your personal care is something you have been meaning to focus on more, here are some ways you can create positive new habits that easily fit around your family life.
Skincare
Our skin is something that most of us swear we are going to start looking after at some point. But, although we may start a skincare routine with the best intentions, it's one of those things that we usually end up giving up not long after we've started it. This is often because we are simply too ambitious with what we try to achieve. After all, how many of us honestly have the time to use a face mask, an exfoliator, a cleanser, a toner and a serum every single morning? When the kids are running amok, it simply isn't going to happen. Instead, keep it simple and set a reminder every morning and evening to commit to your routine. As an extra incentive treat yourself to some cut price goodies with something like a Superdrug discount code for 2017. A simple cleansing face wash and an exfoliator (the latter to use just a couple of times a week) should be perfect. You can even save time by using a tinted moisturiser as your foundation too.
Exercise
You probably only need to look at the word exercise to internally groan and want to roll your eyes. Practically all of us can say that we should probably exercise more, but how many of us actually get round to doing it? Not many. By creating a habit of exercise, you are more likely to commit to the cause and see real results too. The best way to do this is to focus on the mornings. Early morning exercise may not sound like your cup of tea, but, you are far less likely to be interrupted before the rest of the world has started stirring. Arrange a workout session with a friend for a number of weeks, as this will hold you accountable. Or, put your gym wear in your kitchen near the kettle so it's one of the first things you see when you get up. Once you get used to going, you will find it easier to carry on in the long-term.
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Cooking
When it comes to feeding the family, it can sometimes feel like you are feeding the 5000. The most important thing to do when it comes to creating the habit of cooking is to first break any unhealthy habits you have developed. Order takeout a little too often? Throw out all your leaflets and menus and delete those apps from your phone. Once temptation is removed from your path, it will be a lot easier to create a positive habit in the place of your negative one. A bit like with skincare, don't be too ambitious. The meals you cook don't need to be complex or fancy, just tasty and wholesome. Make a point of buying all your ingredients for the week on a Sunday so that you never have the excuse of not having anything in. By taking some of these simple steps you can develop new positive habits that benefit you in all areas of your life.
Cooking
When it comes to feeding the family, it can sometimes feel like you are feeding the 5000. The most important thing to do when it comes to creating the habit of cooking is to first break any unhealthy habits you have developed. Order takeout a little too often? Throw out all your leaflets and menus and delete those apps from your phone. Once temptation is removed from your path, it will be a lot easier to create a positive habit in the place of your negative one. A bit like with skincare, don't be too ambitious. The meals you cook don't need to be complex or fancy, just tasty and wholesome. Make a point of buying all your ingredients for the week on a Sunday so that you never have the excuse of not having anything in. By taking some of these simple steps you can develop new positive habits that benefit you in all areas of your life.
