(Cross-posted at BlogHer)

We’ve all heard that it takes 21 days to build a new habit. Just think–in three short weeks, you could be in the habit of exercising regularly, packing lunch instead of buying it, or blogging every day. So why not build a new habit starting today, this very minute? Here’s how to start:

1. Think about your life, your purpose, and your goals. Is there an aspect of your life with which you’re particularly dissatisfied? Are there goals that you’re especially motivated to achieve? Brainstorm and develop a list of areas where a healthy habit could help you work toward one of your life goals.
2. Refine your list. If one of your items is “get in shape”, translate it to a habit like “walk 30 minutes every day.” If one of your items is “become a lawyer”, scale it down to “register for the LSAT and study every day.” If you make your goal/habit too broad or too difficult, you won’t be motivated to continue. Your goal needs to be reasonable, measurable, and achievable.
3. Pick ONE habit to try for 21 days. That’s right, one. My big mistake in the past has been that I get overly excited and pick FIFTEEN goals because I am determined to change my life once and for all!!! And what happens? I stick with it for a few days, tops, then quit everything in a storm of shame and self-loathing. Don’t go down that path. Pick ONE reasonable, measurable, and achievable goal.
4. Create a system of accountability. Tell your significant other or a close friend about your efforts. Ask that person to check in with you periodically (in an encouraging and supportive way–it’s important that you pick the right friend here!) to see how you’re doing. Or blog about your 21-day makeover and ask your readers to hold you accountable.
5. Celebrate your success. Every time you complete a 21-day makeover, do something wonderfully nice for yourself! Then pick another goal and forge ahead–if you keep going at this pace, you’ll be exactly where you want to be before you know it.

The goal I’m working toward is to write a novel. My 21-day makeover will be to spend at least one hour every day writing. I’m counting on you to be my accountability support system! What’s your 21-day goal?

This post was featured in the Personal Development Carnival–be sure to stop by and check out the other articles. Good stuff!