When Alertness Really Counts

In the same way, we need to be extra alert when our habit is likely to show up, when the urge could seem almost overwhelming. Be creative. Since I've started learning about habit change and assisting Dr. Claiborn with writing The Habit Change Workbook I've lost about 24 pounds. I haven't used a magic formula or a fad diet. I've used exercise, a balanced diet, and the principles of habit reversal. Being extra alert when I know I'm likely to eat unhealthy foods or neglect my exercise has helped. Eating in restaurants and luncheons at people's homes are especially tempting for me. If I eat a little something before I leave the house, it helps me resist the urge to eat too much or to eat the wrong types of foods. Arranging my environment at home has helped too. I've stocked my refrigerator with healthy foods and eliminated such things as cookies, chips, and candy from the grocery list.

Take a look at the records of your habit you've kept. How can you arrange your environment to reduce the urge to engage in your habit? What situations, places and people could you avoid while you're working on your habit? When do you need to be extra alert?