I remember reading somewhere that it it takes 21 days of repetition for something to become a habit. For example, if I want to remember to make my bed every morning, then I need to focus on it for the first 21 days and by then it should become a habit that I don't even really have to think about anymore. The same could be applied to writing here. I now see how easy it is to put it off...it had been so long since my last post that I had to completely start over again, and I was aiming to write at least every couple of days. It is so easy to say "oh, I'm tired, busy, etc...I'll do it tomorrow. " But then the next day comes and we say the same thing again and soon the habit is more about NOT writing than it is writing.
So I have a new goal. I will write every day for 15 minutes. Make no mistake though, that does not mean that I will post everyday! I do have to let go of some perfectionist ideas (or things will never get posted) but I also realize that I don't have to rush to put out an entry that is not yet what I'd hoped it would be. Some days might be spent in research or making lists of ideas to write about in the future. Several times each week I do plan to post my thoughts, however long winded or very brief they may be.
In theory, if I give myself one month, by November 25th my daily writing will have become a habit, but if I miss a day, I'll jump back in where I am. No guilt, regrets or punishments...just keep moving along until my habit sets in.
Anyone care to join me in creating a new habit in the month of November?
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