Over the last 4 years I have developed a habit of repeating positive affirmations...mostly, out of necessity. Every morning I wake up, and at minimum will repeat the phrase "all is well" at least 3 times. I used to have to force and remind myself to do it, now it's automatic. I'm not really sure if or how it helps, but it does center me for the day. It helps put things in perspective especially if I've had a pain filled, sleepless night.
Sometimes, if I have a few extra minutes, I'll repeat a few other affirmations depending on what I need from the universe that day:
"I move forward in life with comfort and ease."
"I am happy, healthy and whole."
"I willingly do all I can to love and protect my body."
These affirmations guide me during my day when I'm sitting in never ending traffic, or struggling with incompetent people at work. By taking a few deep breaths (another habit I've picked up to control my emotions) and repeating a positive affirmation, I am able to regroup and keep myself from overreacting or "snapping" (A bad habit I'm trying to break)
These affirmations are my "fake it till you make it," strategy. I may not really be happy, healthy or whole, but a part of me can be if I just believe it long and hard enough. Aside from the occasional cupcake and glass of wine, it's one of the ways I've learned to survive and overcome everything life has thrown my way.
There are a few other habits I'm proud of including:
1. Meditation
2. Never leaving the house angry
3. Saying I love you to my hubs every day
4. Praying daily
5. Saving money
6. Taking care of my hair
Good habits are hard to form, bad habits are hard to break. Whatever your habits it's good to recognize what's at the source and go from there. If you're trying to change a bad habit for someone else, you won't succeed. If you're trying to create a new good habit because everyone else says you should, you also won't succeed. Your habits have to come from something deep within you, something you value, love or want to achieve. It's not easy, but in the long run, will be well worth the work.