I’ve often heard people say that it takes 30 days to form a new habit. I’ve never quite grasped the truth of this statement… until now.
I’ve always shied away from 30 Day Challenges. Why? Because these types of regimented decisions stir up my inner rebel. As soon as I set a firm and unwavering commitment over a set period of time, deep inside a little voice starts saying, “Oh, c’mon. Let’s have some fun and break the rules!” Over the years, this little voice has gotten me into tons of trouble (and fun, I’ll admit). I’d let my wild side have its way, then meander back to my resolve. Time and again, I’d reflect on my commitment and berate myself for failing. Why can’t I stick to this? What’s wrong with me? Why can’t I ever get anything right? You see where this is going.
It’s taken years for me to unpack and make peace with this dynamic in my mind. As a result, I’ve taken a gentler approach to my commitments. I strive to do my best every day and to hold true to my promises and principles. But, I also cut myself some slack. Not every day is perfect. Sometimes I stumble. And that’s okay.
As of today, I’ve meditated each morning for 33 days in a row. And I’m reaping the benefits of that commitment: each morning I wake up and automatically wander to my cushion to sit. I don’t think about it anymore, I just do it. The habit is ingrained in my psyche and my inner rebel has begrudgingly taken a back seat.
That’s not to say that every morning I wake up, sit on my cushion and experience infinite bliss and insight. But, as I said, I’m learning to cut myself some slack. Not every meditation needs to culminate in waves of exploding light and awareness. I’m not always fully present. But, I’m showing up consistently and with compassion. That’s a victory.
So, I ask you: what are you committing to? And, just as important: when you stumble, how are you loving yourself?
Ultimately, your self-compassion will take you much further than your self-judgment. Give your inner rebel a hug and get back to whatever you’re doing.
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Awesome! 33 days and counting.
Yeah! Haven’t missed a single day yet!
[...] of today, I’ve meditated for 58 days in a row. I’ve committed to my practice, despite my own struggles with forming the habit. Now, it’s time to take it [...]