The chains of habit are too weak to be felt until they are too strong to be broken.

(Quote attributed to Samuel Johnson)

It’s a frightening proposition: one cigarette may lead to an addiction that’s all but impossible to break.

One drink of alcohol can set off a chain reaction that takes one to prison or to an early grave.

I don’t pretend to understand the nature of addiction, but I have seen the results of it. And so have you.

Habits aren’t necessarily a bad thing to have, though. And breaking a habit doesn’t have to be that tough. A certain amount of routine balances our lives and gives us a sense of stability.

Our habits are good or bad according to whether they support or ambush our best interests.

> When I’m going to the gym regularly and need to travel, I want to be sure the hotel has a decent workout room.

> When I’m eating right and go to a restaurant, I want to be sure there are healthy options available.

Bad habits can weigh you down and strip your potential, but there’s one sure way to get rid of a bad habit: replace it with a good habit.

You can do that, if you will.

Challenge: Pick something you habitually do, but want to stop doing. Think of something healthy you want to begin doing that would make an excellent replacement for the bad habit. Then make the switch. At first, you’ll need to be carefully mindful of what you’re doing. You’ll need to make the switch. After a bit, though, you’ll find it easier and easier. Pretty soon, you’ll be on a different trail altogether.

Roadturn Principle: The minute you refuse to fall for the same old story again, the minute you stand up and oppose the voice that says you can’t, that is the moment in time when you will know you CAN.

Let’s talk about it…