Many people’s days are controlled by habits. According to Jamesclear.com, habits can be identified as “small, repeated, and often automatic behaviors performed regularly—often daily—that form the foundation of our routines, health, and lifestyle.”
Habits play a major role in shaping daily life because they build healthy routines, improve productivity and contribute to success. Habits are formed by setting goals and determining how to maintain them. More specifically, it can be identified as a “habit loop”.
Some simple examples of this are brushing teeth every morning and night, making the bed, going to the gym, etc. Although these seem simple, at one time they had to become an everyday habit.
Many students said some common negative habits they experience include sleeping too much, procrastination and laziness. These are commonly seen in teenagers, but making them consistent habits can negatively shape future success and experiences.
There is a large difference between positive and negative habits. Some positive habits can include studying every night, getting eight or more hours of sleep and spending time with family and friends. Some negative habits can be procrastination, doom scrolling or not finishing assignments.
Habits can shape overall mood and productivity. Positive goals and habits can reduce stress, create a sense of control and build a good routine. In contrast, negative habits can do the opposite by increasing stress, bad moods and anxiety.
According to the American Psychological Association, setting goals and habits is “automating actions that align with goals, gradually turning consistent, small behaviors into automatic parts of your identity.”
Students have shown to feel a difference when partaking in healthy, positive habits. In starting habits, students are able to form routines around them.
“I notice a difference in my day when I choose to make choices to be productive. The more often I would do things that help me feel good, the more it would feel like a routine,” Evan Jones (11) said.
Habits can shape the future. There is no specific place to start building habits, but consistently starting with small acts can lead to significant results. Repeating actions is important because they can add up to become something that comes more easily, rather than going out of the way.
Although starting and continuing habits can be challenging, because there is not always a smooth path, it is important to try to stay consistent with them. Common healthy habits that most students are able to uphold can be schoolwork or athletic activities.
