We often embark on a journey to develop new habits with a surge of motivation and determination. However, maintaining that initial enthusiasm is a battle against time and circumstances. It’s surprisingly easy to fall out of a habit, yet reclaiming it demands not just intention, but decisive action.

Habits, whether they are centered on fitness, reading, meditating, or any other discipline, are grounded in routine and consistency. However, life is anything but predictable. An unexpected project at work, illness, or even a change in our daily routine can disrupt our carefully cultivated habits. The problem isn’t just the break in routine, but how we perceive it. If you’re like me, you might beat yourself up for slipping, adding a layer of guilt to the challenge of restarting.

The longer we stay detached from our habit, the larger it looms in our minds, turning into a daunting task we feel less equipped to tackle as time passes. This is where the power of action comes into play.

The Power of Action

To reconnect with a lost habit, action is key. It’s not enough to simply wish to get back on track; we need to set clear, manageable goals and take tangible steps towards them.

1. Start Small: If you were used to running 5 miles every day and took a break, don’t aim for the 5 miles on your first day back. Start with a mile, or even a brisk walk. The objective is to reignite the routine, not to set a record.
2. Schedule It: Allocate a specific time for your habit. The act of scheduling makes your commitment more tangible and prioritizes your habit amidst other activities.
3. Remove Barriers: Identify what’s stopping you. If you’re struggling to find time for reading, try audiobooks during your commute. For exercise, choose a time when you’re least likely to be disrupted.
4. Celebrate Small Victories: Each day you successfully engage in your habit, no matter how small the effort, is a victory. Celebrate these moments. They are significant milestones on your journey back to consistency.
5. Don’t Give Up on Yourself: You are worth fighting for. Rebuilding the path back to a habit can feel hard, often because of all the negative chatter that clutters up our brains about it’s all our fault, or we’re such a loser yada, yada, yada. Be gentle with yourself. Be kind to yourself. Be loving, in your thoughts and actions. Know, each step you take towards reclaiming your habit is a ‘small significance’ that will build into a big difference.

Falling out of a habit is easy and human. However, reconnecting with that habit is not just about desire; it’s about action. By starting small, scheduling your habit, removing barriers, and celebrating your successes, you can rediscover the path to your goals. Remember, the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. Let that step be yours today. And don’t forget, take that step in loving kindness with yourself.