Needing to Do Things Differently:

Why Sticking to Old Habits Won’t Get You Where You Want

Let’s be honest for a second: your old habits are like that comfortable but totally unflattering sweater you refuse to throw out. Sure, it’s warm, and it’s been with you through thick and thin, but it’s also holding you back from any real progress. Sound familiar?

We all get stuck in ruts. Whether it’s that same old evening routine of Netflix and snacks or convincing yourself that next week will be the week you finally start really working out, old habits are easy to fall into. But here’s the thing: sticking to what’s familiar is not going to get you to the next level. If you want to see real change, you’ve got to shake things up.

Tip #1: Acknowledge the Pattern (Without Judgment)

Before you do anything, take a moment to actually acknowledge the habit that’s holding you back. And here’s the kicker: Don’t beat yourself up about it! We all have patterns we’ve built over time maybe it’s procrastination, maybe it’s that 3 PM sugar crash, or maybe it’s binge-eating ice cream because it “helps” with stress.

The goal isn’t self-criticism. It’s awareness. The first step to changing anything is realizing it exists, without judgment. So, look at that habit, nod at it, and then gently say, “It’s time for you to go.”

Tip #2: Take Small Risks 

Sometimes breaking habits feels like jumping off a cliff. And while I’m all for bold moves, breaking patterns doesn’t have to involve a complete life overhaul. Take small, manageable risks. Instead of binge-watching TV after work, try 15 minutes of stretching or reading a chapter of a book. Tiny shifts make a big difference over time.

Breaking habits doesn’t have to be extreme. Just try something different, even if it’s small, and see what happens.

Tip #3: Get Comfortable with Discomfort (Because Growth Is Weird)

Change is uncomfortable. There’s no way around it. If you’re not a little bit uncomfortable when you try something new, then you’re probably staying in your comfort zone and that’s not going to get you anywhere. Whether it’s waking up 15 minutes earlier or cutting out the evening Netflix habit, those first few days or weeks will feel…awkward.

But guess what? That’s growth. Lean into the discomfort. It’s the only way to break free from the old, stale patterns.

Conclusion:

Old habits are like that friend who refuses to leave the party they're comfortable, but eventually, they’ve overstayed their welcome. If you want to break free and move forward, it’s time to shake things up. Be kind to yourself, take baby steps, and embrace the discomfort of growth.