In the third stage, deal with disrupting your habitual behavior patterns: over time, we have all acquired very specific behavior patterns, shaped by our parents, our upbringing, our environment, our education and much more. In your job, too, there is a pattern of behavior that you are used to. Maybe your daily routine is completely uniform.
But most of the time the daily routine is not enough. You are required to be active. Possibly you think that you associate more advantages with the old behavior, advantages as you know them – but you also know that you should be active in other areas, too, but the old pattern prevents you from actively going this new way. That’s when you have an excellent idea: “Today I’ll do all the things I’ve always had to do, and tomorrow I’ll take care of the new challenge.”
Don’t get stuck in old patterns of behavior
Many people say the same thing to themselves again the following day, “Not today, but tomorrow,” and remain stuck in the old behavior pattern. Here is one way to manage to interrupt the old program. Let’s assume, for example, that you want to improve your interpersonal relationships. Make this a firm goal and break the old rut. Determine firmly that today, for example, you will give praise and recognition 10 times. But it must be sincere.
Go in search of the endearing qualities of those around you. Discover the positive qualities and praise them! Make a tally sheet and make a mark each time you have given praise and recognition.
Make your decision now and implement that decision immediately. The most important thing in this stage is that you actually interrupt ingrained patterns to allow for a new behavior.
Develop effective alternatives
The fourth stage deals with the ways in which you can adopt this new behavior. Perhaps you’ve tried to change your behavior but haven’t quite succeeded. The thought quickly arises to simply let it go again, because this is the “better” = more comfortable way. Do not be tempted to take this path.
There are two ways out of this impasse: on the one hand, you look for a successful person as a role model, or you tie in with your own successes of the past, let the images, words and feelings of that time pass inwardly once again in review and note your strengths. Use these strengths that are anchored in you and activate them anew.
There’s a saying that goes, “If you’re worried tomorrow, find someone you can help.” Look for alternatives that will help you achieve your desired behavior and make this sustainable. Keep in mind that you are the person who decides. It is solely your decision whether you like to give praise and recognition, for example.
Definitely opt for activities that you otherwise neglect. One of the human privileges is freedom of choice. Every day and at all times. Leave possible imaginary limitations. Do not remain in your rut, because it always leads to the same results. Different activities lead to different results. Seek alternative opportunities that support your goals.
