Changing old habits

Nothing FAILS like success. What isn't working anymore? Try this quiz.

Habits can be efficient - they help us do things without thinking.

We're not aware of millions of good habits, just a few bad ones.

Because they're automatic, they're hard to break.

Habits that work are reinforced - like doing instead of delegating.

Being rewarded inhibits breaking habits.

Often the reward is just the speed and convenience of getting something done or a sense of accomplishment.

Identify what you get out of maintaining your old habit, i.e. doing things yourself instead of delegating might give you a sense of security knowing that they're done as you like.

Engineer things to get the same reward out of a new habit, i.e. delegate only when reassured how and when it will get it done.

Or, convince yourself that the reward for your new habit is worth more than the reward for your old habit, i.e the advantage of more time for other things, more developed and better motivated staff.

Make a public commitment to your personal change plan.

Arrange for regular feedback to monitor your progress - either with your staff, a mentor, your boss or a learning partner.

Set up punishment for your old habit, i.e. paying a fine to a charity or a rebuke from your staff. Give them permission and thanks.

Celebrate success at regular and frequent intervals.