Old Dogs, New Tricks

Let’s face it: a resolution often involves little more than changing a habit—typically a bad one—to somehow improve one’s life. We are, however, creatures of habit, so most resolutions are forgotten within days or weeks of making them. It seems that many of us “old dogs” aren’t into learning new tricks.

by John Hernandez on Morguefile

It’s January 2015, and resolutions are all the rage. With that in mind, does it make sense to take another look at developing new habits and setting new goals? On the other hand, it didn’t work last year or the year before or the one before that.

Change is hard—and intimidating. But the benefits can far outweigh the difficulties—a lesson I managed to put off learning until very recently.  

For many years, simplification of my life, though sorely needed, has fallen victim to the Scarlett O’Hara Syndrome: tomorrow's another day. (Procrastination is one of those bad habits.) Now health issues dictate that need has been upgraded to requirement. Procrastination time is over. After unsuccessfully trying to retire—I was bored out of my mind—I have “resolved” to work part-time and write part-time. Because editing and nurturing other writers are special joys of mine, giving that up left a significant hole in my joie de vivre. Aha moment: With making some adjustments, I don’t have to give them up!

by jppi on Morguefile

While continuing to downsize and/or reorganize all areas of my life, I’m discovering that old habits can be discarded and new ones learned. Practical but exciting goals can replace old ones that no longer fit the need or meet current constraints. This old dog is learning some new tricks in order to do what she still wants to do.  

The hardest part for me has been changing the mindset. (I cannot do everything, so it’s time to choose what means the most!) Writing novels has been my goal since childhood, but I have long had a bad habit of letting too many (often less important) things get in the way. Now that treasured work will get its fair share of time. Already, past bad habits pound at the door; tempting as it is to return to my previous comfort zone, I’m not answering. The thought processes have shifted; I think differently. My writer within screams to be heard. She’s getting very hoarse—and quite out of breath—but I’m finally listening.

by dave on Morguefile

Do you have issues with keeping resolutions or cultivating new habits? What are your goals for 2015? Is forsaking old habits necessary to realize those goals? Please tell us what works for you.

Linda Lane and her editing team mentor and encourage writers at all phases of the writing process. To learn more about what they do, please visit them at DenverEditor.com.