Whether an anecdote, or hard (semi-hard?) science, the rule of thumb is that it takes 21 days* to make, and break, habits. I’d had an excellent three-month run of sticking with my strength routine, journaling most days, and tracking calories. Then I had Cordelia installed, had three months of very limited use of my left arm, and went on a 16-day road trip for good measure. My good habits? Right down the drain.

So, what does one do when they decide that they need to get back on the Good Habit Train? They make a decision and get on it.

I brought my walking shoes to the office and have been trying to get in a brisk 30-minute walk on the lunch break – even if it means being sweaty for a little bit.

I pulled out my journal and started putting my ponderings to paper once again. It feels good to get my thoughts down once more, but admittedly, I’m not keeping up with it daily. Baby steps.

Tracking calories? I’ve not started up again, mostly because all of my clothes fit and some are a bit loose. But the option is always there should I need it.

Finding that we have developed a habit, good or bad, intentionally or not, is always interesting. If we discovered that we’ve slid into a less-than-desirable routine, it’s up to us alone to turn things around. A pattern more in line with our preferences? We want to cultivate that custom!

Me? I’ll keep managing those manners.

What good habits are you working on? What bad habits are you trying to eliminate?

*It essentially takes three times longer than 21 days to create a habit – you have to stick to doing something at least two months.

The Amusing Muse is a writer, blogger, and elderly cat caretaker who lives in Southern Wisconsin. She has a love of good wine, fantastic cheese, and cartoons. She also is looking forward to warm sock season.