Working on a new habit?

Are you trying to start something new in your routine?  Do you want to succeed at it?  Some say it takes about 21 days for a new habit to take root.  It's like grafting a new branch into an existing plant.

Here are a few tips to consider in making the most of that new thing you want to incorporate into your lifestyle:

1. Be patient.  Patience is becoming a rarity in our fast-paced culture.  We're used to microwaves, drive thru windows, and 65 mph speed limits.  Building a new habit into a lifestyle simply takes time.  There's no way around it.
2. Be in community.  Starting something new is nearly impossible if done alone.  We really need one another.  Chances for success increase greatly with a peer-to-peer accountability partner who can ask you hard questions, actively listen, and encourage.
3. Be relevant.  Times will get tough.  Life will take over.  You will be presented with the opportunity to get frustrated and give up.  If the new habit isn't relevant to what you are trying to be or do, your new habit will fall by the side and die.  If, however, your new habit is powerfully connected to an overall plan to grow personally, it has a greater chance of weathering these moments of discouragement.

Make personal growth a lifestyle.  It's certainly worth the effort.  But be sure you are patient, in community and have relevant goals and you'll be serving strong!