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Wellness

How to Break Bad Habits and Build Good Ones

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Hello, my beautiful sisters.

Let’s talk about something that we all deal with—habits. Those little routines and behaviors that shape our daily lives, sometimes without us even realizing it.

The problem is, some of those habits aren’t serving us. In fact, they might be holding us back from becoming the women we’re meant to be.

Today, we’ll explore how to break the habits that don’t align with your purpose and build the ones that will take you closer to your goals.


Why Bad Habits Are So Hard to Break

Let’s be real: breaking bad habits isn’t easy.

Maybe you’ve tried before and felt frustrated because you keep falling back into the same patterns. You wake up thinking, Today’s the day I stop procrastinating, stop skipping workouts, or stop doubting myself.

But by the end of the day, nothing’s changed, and you’re beating yourself up again.

Sisters, let me remind you of something: you are not your bad habits. They are learned behaviors, not permanent parts of your identity.

Breaking them isn’t about willpower—it’s about understanding yourself, your triggers, and your values.


Habits as Tools for Purpose

Habits are not just routines; they’re tools.

They either push you closer to your goals or pull you further away. Imagine what your life could look like if every small action was aligned with the woman you want to become.

Building good habits isn’t about perfection—it’s about creating a system that works for you, one step at a time.


You Are Capable of Change

Change is possible.

You’ve done hard things before, and you can do this too. Remember, every small step forward is progress. It’s not about being perfect; it’s about being intentional.

The habits you choose today can shape your future.

Image from Black Girl Heal website article: How to Break Bad Habits and Build Good Ones
Credit: Canva

How to Break Bad Habits and Build Good Ones

1. Identify the Habit and Its Trigger
Start by pinpointing the habit you want to change. Ask yourself:

  • When do I do this habit?
  • What triggers it—stress, boredom, or a specific situation?

Understanding the “why” behind your habit helps you interrupt the cycle.

2. Replace the Bad Habit with a Good One
Don’t just try to stop a bad habit—replace it. For example:

  • If you tend to scroll on your phone before bed, replace it with reading or journaling.
  • If you snack when you’re stressed, replace it with deep breathing or a quick walk.

3. Start Small and Be Consistent
Big changes don’t happen overnight. Focus on small, manageable actions. If your goal is to exercise, start with 10 minutes a day. Build consistency, and over time, it will become second nature.

4. Use Reminders and Rewards
Set reminders to keep your new habit top of mind. Use rewards to celebrate your progress—just make sure the reward aligns with your goal. For example, treat yourself to new workout gear after a month of consistent exercise.

5. Forgive Yourself and Keep Going
You will slip up—that’s part of being human. When it happens, don’t quit. Reflect on what triggered the slip, adjust your plan, and keep moving forward.


Uplifting Call to Action

Sisters, your habits are the foundation of your future. You don’t have to let old patterns define you. Today is the day to take control and create habits that serve your purpose.

Imagine waking up each day knowing that your actions are leading you closer to your dreams. Imagine the peace and pride of living a life aligned with your goals.

Take the first step today. Identify one habit you want to break and one good habit to replace it with. Small steps lead to big changes.

You’ve got this.

Author

  • Shelia Huggins Photo for Black Girl Heal Blog

    Shelia Huggins is a 20+ year attorney who has helped clients with their business and personal legal challenges. She blogs at Black Girl Heal to provide insight and practical strategies for those seeking to heal the struggles of their wallets, mindsets, and lives. Known as "Ms Legalista" on YouTube, she is passionate about helping people find their path and achieve the personal success they've been looking for.

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