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Thinking About Breaking That Good Habit, Just This Once?
Hey friend! So, I’ve been pondering this tricky question: How can we allow ourselves a little wiggle room with a good habit without completely throwing it out the window? Sometimes, we genuinely want to indulge, whether it’s to celebrate something special or seize a rare opportunity.
A great way to handle this is with what I like to call a “planned exception.” This approach helps us avoid those impulsive decisions that can derail our habits. As adults, we make our own rules, and planning ahead for an exception gives us that control we crave. Instead of breaking our habits on a whim, we can decide in advance how we want to handle those tempting situations, and believe me, it makes us feel so much happier and more in control.
The key to successful exceptions is to keep them limited and have a clear end point. Just the other day, my buddy Mark shared how he navigated his usual healthy eating habits while on vacation. He told me that he didn’t want to miss out on the amazing pies available at the local diner but also didn’t want to go overboard.
Mark set a “pie policy” before his trip. He decided he’d treat himself to one slice of pie with every meal. Here’s how he did it:
- If-Then Planning: He thought, “If I’m in this picturesque town, then I will allow myself to enjoy pie.” This way, he set clear boundaries for his indulgence.
- Clear Limits: One slice per meal was a simple rule that took away any guesswork. He enjoyed his pumpkin and peach pies without feeling like he was overdoing it.
- No Takebacks: Mark also made sure not to bring pie back to his cabin. This kept him from mindlessly munching on leftovers throughout the day. It’s all about keeping it simple—one slice per meal is easy math!
- Sticking to One Treat: Even when the thought of ice cream crept in, he reminded himself that he was there for pie. He knew if he ventured into other treats, he might find himself straying further from his goals.
- Enjoying the Moment: Finally, Mark recognized that allowing himself to have the pie would enhance his vacation experience. By treating himself mindfully, he avoided that “life isn’t fair” mentality and truly savored each bite.
It’s worth noting that Mark is an Abstainer, which means he finds it easier to stick to his good habits when he completely avoids certain temptations. I can relate, as I’m also an Abstainer—just ask me what I’m currently abstaining from! I’ve discovered that I’m a bit of an extreme personality in this regard, which has been a real eye-opener.
Here’s a little nugget of wisdom: Sometimes, to maintain our good habits, we have to give ourselves permission to take a break.
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Summary
Breaking a good habit doesn’t have to spell disaster if you plan ahead. Setting clear limits, sticking to one treat, and reminding yourself why you’re indulging can help you enjoy those special moments without derailing your overall goals.