New Year Resolution 101: How to Confront an Unhealthy Habit

We all have them. Those little indulgences that grow into habits and gnaw away at us. They used to please us. Now they mostly make us feel shame. We feel like we can’t fully control ourselves around that habit - whether it’s ice cream, cigars, whiskey, potato chips, etc.

Living in quarantine has made it harder to enjoy our social and exercise routines. It can make us feel a bit alienated, sad, and lonely. Those are ideal conditions for an unhealthy habit to take root. On top of that, midwestern winters can be challenging. The days are short, and often we don’t see a lot of sunshine. These days can be emotionally challenging, and indulgences can be a welcome distraction.

But a new year presents a powerful opportunity. Each day gets a little longer. The COVID-19 vaccine is becoming increasingly available. Happier and healthier days are on the way. Lean into that promise by confronting that unhealthy habit. It stands to make you feel strong and proud of yourself. Plus, Visiting Angels of Crystal Lake is here to supports our clients’ healthy habits. Here’s how to get started.

Level with yourself

You’re the one who knows it when a habit doesn’t serve you. If a habit haunts you - if it makes you feel guilty and takes up too much space in your mind, then it may be worth addressing. If you spend too much money on it or if it has another consequence like it causes you not to feel well, to gain weight, or to consistently engage in behavior that runs contrary to your doctor’s advice, then it may be time to examine that habit.

Being honest with yourself is step one. If you’re finding yourself being less than forthright with yourself or the people you love to cover for the habit, it might be a good cue to ask: do I really want to continue doing this?

Get support

Sometimes, support means just saying it out loud: I think I need to address my overeating, smoking, drinking, etc. Part of what has been challenging about the pandemic is that we have so much less physical company than we’re used to. But you can count on your Visiting Angels Caregiver to be a routine presence in your life. Say it out loud to your caregiver. Then you can talk through what you need. If you need to see your doctor, your caregiver can take you to that appointment. If you need to meet with a dietician or a therapist, your caregiver can get you there.

Visiting Angels Caregivers are not experts on behavioral issues, but they are a regular, support presence in your life. They care, and they are committed to your wellness. They are good listeners and can help you facilitate the details of a change you want to make in your life.

Supply your success

Dislodging a problematic habit often means securing supplies and resources. This may mean doing research at your local library, getting supplies from the health food store, or checking out classes at the YMCA. Visiting Angels offers customized services geared towards your needs.

As you think through what it may look like to make this adjustment to your lifestyle, consider what supplies and resources you need to succeed and ask your caregiver to help you secure those resources.  

Reach out  

While it can make us feel powerless to feel indebted to a habit, confronting that issue gives us the chance to take our own power back. It’s exciting to recognize that this indulgence isn’t in control-we are. Online communities have been powerful for those addressing various issues, especially during the pandemic. Social media groups abound for those grappling with addictions to food, alcohol, tobacco, etc. This can be a helpful 24-hour resource to those who are working to build better habits.

If you’re not yet active online, consider pursuing Visiting Angels Social Care.  Arrange to meet with a Visiting Angels pro who can work at a comfortable speed and take you through the basics of getting up and running on social media and online. It’s a great way to get active and to kick off your new year’s ambition.

A healthy new year

Confronting a bad habit is a power move. It’s challenging, but it’s also rewarding. Rest assured, your Visiting Angels Caregiver has your back. To learn more about Visiting Angels of Crystal Lake, call (815) 479-0312 or visit us online.