EXPOSITORY ESSAY: “What can you do to quit a bad habit?

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Donadío, Iara

It has been said by healthcare professionals that habits are patterns of behavior that
play an important role in our health and so they are difficult to erase. These can often
be a good thing or lead people astray when they become a daily habit, such as
smoking, nail-biting, or even poor posture, that can be harmful to people (D).
Nevertheless, there are some common strategies mentioned by behavioral coaches
and psychologists to help quit them.

As habits can arise through repetition, developing when good or enjoyable events
trigger the brain’s “reward” centers, it is common for people to fall into overeating,
smoking, drug or alcohol abuse, and even compulsive use of computers and social
media. For this, as there are parts of the brain working against persons when they try
to overcome bad habits, it is essential to begin by tracking the habit. Consequently,
people will be able to identify patterns of triggering environments or actions in order
to help them avoid these. Once the habit has been tracked, personal and realistic
goals should be set along the process.

In addition, to set realistic goals, people should be aware of their limits for them not
to take more than they can handle as regards physical and mental health. Along with
this awareness, people should also find an alternative or replacement to the old
habit. As it was shown in many studies, this practise can lower the chances to get a
behavioral rebound effect. Therefore, as this process is full of changes and might get
tough, everyone needs to be surrounded by a supportive environment.

Moreover, if someone feels they have done the best they can and are still struggling,
they should consider seeking support. This may be a therapist who can give support
(D), a doctor who can prescribe medicine (D) to deal with anxiety, some peaceful
practice such as meditation, running, or praying, or just a friend who you can trust
and feel comfortable with (D) through the process. Undoubtedly, people should
recognize it as a journey, and everyone can take different paths to reach the goal.

All things considered, as habits are defined as patterns of behavior, it can get difficult
to quit them. Half of the battle consists of persistence and commitment, focusing on
better control of life, which is one of many worthy goals (ND) in breaking a bad habit.
Likewise, it is not impossible once people are aware of harmful behaviors and the
effort it takes to change.

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