Why is it we do the same things over in the same way? Drive the same route to work? Eat with our dominant hand? Find the same locker at the Y? Sleep on the same side of the bed?
We do it because it is familiar, comfortable, we don’t have to think about what we are doing and it is faster than changing to a new habit. However, these are the precise reasons to change our habits – they become routine and we are not engaged.
This is one reason why change is so difficult for us to make – I have to be astutely aware of what I’m doing and feeling so I get it right, I don’t get lost, or I have to remember new co-workers names.
I’ve been asked this question numerous times: “So how does one become mindful in one’s life? What are the practices?”
When I respond that it could be something as simple as enjoying your food, tasting the flavors and enjoying the aroma, I get quizzical looks. Becoming mindful is starting with baby steps, to bring a beginner’s mind to any activity.
Recently, I started using my non-dominant hand (left) to shave with a razor. What a challenge! After several times, I decided to give up. Then, I tried it again and was very conscious and aware of how to position my left hand with the razor on my face so the razor would glide on my face. It’s working and I’m delighted especially since I think of shaving as a waste of time. Now it is not a waste of time and I look forward to increasing my adeptness at shaving. Just a little thing like this brought a sense of joy to me.
So, when we change our habits, we learn how impatient we are, how entrenched we are with the way we do things. But we also learn how many abilities lie dormant within us that can bring joy to our lives.
What are your “baby step” stories of change?