By their very definition, habits are hard to give up.
Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines “habit” as “a settled tendency or usual manner of behavior; an acquired mode of behavior that has become nearly or completely involuntary.”
So, habits can be like breathing or sleeping. Involuntary! How, then, can you shed the negative ones that may be holding you back or causing stress or even harm in your life?
It won’t be easy: the best achievements often aren’t. But the end results are well worth it. By breaking these and other bad work habits as you kick off this new year, you can reap numerous benefits, including:
- Keeping distractions to a minimum and thus increasing your productivity, feeling more satisfied at the end of a workday or completion of a task, and significantly relieving your stress level.
- Gaining the goodwill, support and trust of coworkers and your boss.
- Being happier with your work/life balance.
- Having a greater chance of job success and career advancement.
Here are some of those habits that may be standing in your way. Do any of these ring all-too familiar?
Procrastinating
This holds true with changing any habit for the better: Start small. For instance, if a project feels too overwhelming, break it down into smaller, more manageable steps and tackle them one at a time. And if there’s one that you’re particularly dreading? This will sting a little, but tackle this one first.
Which leads to …
Failure to Prioritize
What really needs to get done today? Take five minutes to reflect and be realistic as you answer this question. Then, make a list – and make it happen. It may mean pushing something you thought you would enjoy doing this morning off until another day. Unless that desired task is also a top priority. Then, have at it!
Overcommitting
Are you noticing a pattern here? As you prioritize, put a time frame next to everything. If you have an unrealistic picture of what you can accomplish in a day or a week, you’re setting yourself up for failure. Learn to say “no” in a professional, smart and successful way.
Having the Wrong Amount of – or No – Break Time in Your Schedule
Included in that time frame should be the right amount of break time – not too much and certainly not too little. You should not and cannot labor non-stop in order to get everything done. Nor should you allow yourself to fall into the habit – there’s that word again! – of distractions or disorganization causing you to take too many, or too lengthy, breaks.
The career coaches at PrideStaff Northern Kentucky have your back when it comes to being your best self at work and as a result, in all you do. We can help you shine at every step along your chosen professional path, from self-development and growth in your current role to finding your next great opportunity. Contact us today to learn more.
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