10.Habits

Q1 Why do we develop bad habits?

Ans- I think we develop bad habits mostly because bad habits feel good in the moment. For example, eating junk food or scrolling on our phone gives us instant comfort, even if it's not good for us later. Another reason is because of stress or boredom, when we just need something to escape. I guess it's also because they are easier than good habits, since watching TV is much simpler than going for a run. Sometimes we don't even realize we're doing it, it just becomes automatic. And of course, because we don't think about long-term consequences, we only care about how we feel right now. Personally, I know I've done that many times with snacks or staying up late. So yeah, bad habits come naturally, while good ones take effort.

Q2 What can we do to get rid of bad habits?

Ans- I think we can get rid of bad habits if we replace them with better habits, like going for a walk instead of scrolling on the phone. Another way is if we take small steps instead of big ones, because changing everything at once usually doesn't work. It also really helps if we get support from family and friends, since they can remind us to stay on track. Some people also like to give themselves little treats, so we reward ourselves for progress and feel motivated. Of course, it's important if we stay patient because it takes time, and we shouldn't expect quick results. I've noticed that habits don't disappear overnight, but small changes add up. Also, it's good if we remind ourselves why we want to change, like for health or confidence. So yeah, with patience and the right mindset, bad habits can definitely be broken.

Q3 Do you think a person's good habits would influence those around him or her? How?

Ans- Yeah, I think a person's good habits can influence others because people copy what they see every day. For example, if one friend always goes jogging, the others might start joining in. Another reason is friends feel motivated to do the same, since nobody wants to be the lazy one in the group. Also, seeing results makes others want to try, like when someone eats healthy and looks full of energy. Family is the same... kids especially learn by watching, so they copy what parents do. In a way, good habits create a positive atmosphere, and that energy spreads quickly. I've seen it happen with my own friends when one person started drinking more water and everyone else followed. So yes, I really believe good habits don't just help one person, but they influence the whole group.

Q4 What habits should children have?

Ans- Well, I guess, first of all, kids should have all those important healthy habits which will help them live a healthy life. I mean a habit to eat regular, nutritious, well-balanced food, a habit to be engaged in regular physical activity, a habit to drink enough water and not to skip breakfast and even a habit to keep themselves clean. These habits will undoubtedly help them stay healthy, energised and alert. The second group of habits I would like to emphasise are all those habits which will help kids become successful and achieve whatever they want in life. These are such habits as a habit to work hard, a habit of being patient and persevering, a habit to value time, respect people and even a habit to accept defeat. Well, and of course, I can't help mentioning those habits which will make them worthy people, for example, a habit to treat all people equally, help others and never harm people, animals or birds.

Q5 What should parents do to teach their children good habits?

Ans- Well, I guess set a good example to them, first of all. Parents are the most important role models for kids, so much of learning that occurs during childhood is acquired through observation and imitation of what these significant adults do. But teaching kids something by being a role model for them is not the only way, of course. There are definitely some things parents can do to help kids enjoy building good habits into their life. For example, one of the things they can do is encourage the young to break out of their comfort zone and motivate them to start small, I mean with micro goals. Taking baby steps is a simple way to ensure that kids will stick with a new habit as it will be much easier for them to fit it into their schedule. Well, and last but not least, it's important for parents to offer positive reinforcement as kids learn a new good habit, drawing their attention to how happy they are that their child has learnt such a good habit.

Q6 Why do some habits change when people get older, and how do people change their habits?

Ans- Most people undergo a significant transformation during their lifetime, which changes not only their personality but also their habits and preferences. Also, as the years go by, people change priorities in life, which makes them change their focus of attention. So they try to stop doing the stuff they don't want to do, opting for those activities which inspire and motivate them to keep living their dream life. For example, many people try to get rid of bad habits and develop healthy habits instead, for example, healthy eating and sleep habits. Many people try to walk more, drink 1.5 litres of water daily, go to bed and wake up earlier, read a book before going to bed, or meditate.