We form habits and later the habit forms us

Some years back I was in a group discussion and we were asked to give some examples of habits. The response came in and almost everyone gave an example of a bad habit. One will think that all to habit is bad. Habit can either be good or bad.

What is a habit?

Habit is a ‘regularly repeated behaviour pattern; an action or pattern of behaviour that is repeated so often that it becomes typical of somebody, although he or she may be unaware of it.’ (Encarta Dictionary).

How are habits formed?

Habits are formed by repetition. It is formed by a repeated behavioural pattern. With repetition comes expertise in the behaviour and that’s a habit.

Habit can be expressed subconsciously. You do not have to be aware to express a habit.

Can habit be inherited?

Habit is not inherited. It is rather formed or acquired. You form habits. You do not inherit it. Though it can be influenced by the environment or by those who you live with, it is not inherited.

Does habit form us?

We form habits and it later forms us. You are your habits. You formed the habit but it takes over the wheel later to form you. It is therefore important to form good habits and break the bad ones.

Aristotle said ‘We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence then is not an act but a habit’. You are what you repeatedly do. Your habit makes you. Excellence can also be taken as a habit.

Excellence is not an act or coincidence; it is a habit.

Vince Lombardi said, ‘winning is a habit; unfortunately so is losing’. He also said that ‘once you learn to quit, it becomes a habit.’

A habit is not learnt in a day; it is learned over time. It involves a repeated pattern of behaviour over time until it is typical of you.

So you can write down what you want to form and then do it repeatedly until it becomes you. It may be difficult initially but be patient and consistent in the act and it will soon become easier.

Don’t forget that we form habits and later the habit forms us. Therefore, form good habits.