But this year in my quest for wisdom I came across an article about one of my favorite wise men, Benjamin Franklin. He advises that you tackle one new habit at a time instead of trying to change everything at once...make one thing a habit before you move on to the next one. You won't feel overwhelmed and your more apt to truly change.
Benjamin Franklin's Approach
Now here I am at the end of the month less frustrated then years past, and not feeling like a total failure. In fact, I feel a more disciplined ME in the near future. So far I'm in the habit of going to bed earlier, reading each morning, trading my soda for healthy drinks, and speaking more kindly to those around me. The weight is still patiently waiting for the habit of the gym to begin and the words in my head are begging for a pen...but I know I'm going to get there!
Normally this slow pace of change would drive me crazy as I'm always in such a rush to get things done, but the beauty of this new habit-forming plan is that slow and steady is what will help me change for the long run.
In other words, I may just beat that well-intentioned, 'I know I'm faster than you' rabbit to the finish line. My tortoise shell is, yes, also heavy with good intentions but instead of quitting because it's just too much, my little steps prove that moving, even if but slowly, is better than not moving at all!
It's more apt to get me 'there' then having no plan and jumping into the 'race for change' full steam, only to find myself soon panting breathlessly on the sidelines, convinced that I may as well not even try anymore.
And remember...any action, even if but small, is much better than a plethora of empty words with nothing following.
How few there are who have courage enough to own their faults, or resolution enough to mend them. ~Benjamin Franklin
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