Did you know that there is no evidence to support the statement that it takes 21 days to form a habit? In fact, I searched for information on habit forming and I came across this really interesting blog post (http://www.spring.org.uk/2009/09/how-long-to-form-a-habit.php) that shows that the average time is actually more like 66 days. So, give yourself a break if your desired behavior doesn't feel natural to you after 3 weeks!
Still, there are definitely benefits to making positive changes in our lives. Consider the following and see if these changes might be needed in your life. Then, give yourself at least two months before giving up on it! ;-)
- If it isn't needed, or if it isn't needed NOW - don't buy it. I am so guilty of breaking this rule, but I'm working on it. How many times do we make a purchase simply because we recognize that the price is "really good!"? Or buy something that you will use later or (this is my personal issue) read later? Giving in to these impulses to purchase simply makes our home more cluttered - not to mention that it also makes our wallets less fat.
- Be willing to settle. This, too, is a challenge for me and my fellow perfectionists. However it is well worth the effort. Simply give things your best effort and then move on. Give yourself permission to take shortcuts. This 'grace' will make a big difference in your life, your health, and your home atmosphere.
- Implement some type of schedule. We all need routine in our lives. In fact, I can assure you that you are living your life based on some type of routine. We all are. Take some time to analyze what is and isn't working in your routine and adjust accordingly. Back to School time is a great time to re-adjust your family's routine. We tend to resort back to earlier bedtimes and scheduled time for other key things like homework.
- Include clutter clearing as a regular part of your routine. For example, have a time set aside to deal with paper (which is a huge issue for alot of people). We have mail and paperwork from our job or home business, we have school schedules and sport schedules. There is the papers that have come home from school that need to be dealt with. I have a Professional Organizer friend that has a great blog. She has lots of great ideas on dealing with paper. Check her out here: http://colleencpo.wordpress.com/category/taking-care-of-business/paper-management/ and committ to making a positive change in this area of your life this month!
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