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Building in flexibility can help us maintain our habits over the long term from "summary" of Better Than Before by Gretchen Rubin
When we're trying to establish new habits, it's tempting to think that strict rules and rigid routines are the best way to go. We believe that if we set clear boundaries and stick to them no matter what, we'll be able to maintain our habits over the long term. However, this approach can actually backfire. The truth is, life is unpredictable and circumstances change. If we're too rigid in our habits, we leave ourselves vulnerable to setbacks and failures. For example, if we have a strict rule about going to the gym every day, what happens when we get sick or have a busy week at work? Suddenly, our habit is in jeopardy, and we're more likely to give up altogether. Building in flexibility is a better approach. By allowing ourselves some leeway and room for adjustment, we're better equipped to deal with unexpected challenges. This doesn't mean we should abandon our habits at the first sign of difficulty. Instead, it means being adaptable and willing to make changes when necessary. Flexibility also prevents us from feeling trapped or restricted by our habits. When we give ourselves permission to deviate from our usual routine occasionally, we reduce the chances of rebellion or resentment creeping in. We're more likely to stick to our habits in the long run if we don't feel constricted by them. Incorporating flexibility into our habits doesn't mean we should abandon structure altogether. It's about finding a balance between consistency and adaptability. We can set clear guidelines for our habits while also allowing for exceptions when needed. This way, we can maintain our habits over the long term without feeling overwhelmed or constrained.
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