Healthy Habits and How They Shape Our Lives | Calgary Psychology Support
Habits have a large impact on our everyday lives. You may often hear people say “humans are creatures of habit and routine”. It is very much true!
Habits are the small actions we repeat every day—sometimes without even realizing it. Over time, these patterns shape our physical health, emotional well-being, and even our mindset. Some habits, like brushing your teeth or exercising, support growth and health. Others, like poor sleep or excessive screen time, can work against us. Understanding how habits form—and how to change them—can help us build a healthier, more balanced life.
How Habits Are Formed
Habits are built through repetition. Habits are stored in the basal ganglia, the part of the brain that runs routines automatically—like brushing teeth or tying shoes. This frees up brainpower for creativity and problem-solving! When we consistently do something in the same environment, it becomes automatic. This happens because the brain creates strong neural pathways that make the behavior easier to repeat.
For example:
Positive habit: Brushing your teeth daily—something most of us do without thinking.
Negative habit: Staying up late every night, which may leave you feeling tired and unfocused the next day.
Not all habits are clearly “good” or “bad,” but being aware of how they affect your life is the first step in making meaningful change.
Good Habits vs. Bad Habits
Good habits support your well-being, productivity, or personal growth. Examples include eating nutritious meals, practicing mindfulness, exercising, or reading regularly.
Bad habits can have negative consequences, either for you or those around you. These might include smoking, unhealthy eating patterns, irregular sleep, or excessive use of technology.
The difference often comes down to whether a habit adds value to your life—or takes away from it.
Transforming Negative Habits
Changing habits takes time, awareness, and consistency. Here’s a simple framework to guide you:
Identify the trigger (cue): Notice what prompts the habit (stress, boredom, environment).
Choose an alternative routine: Replace the behavior with something healthier.
Reward yourself: Reinforce the positive change so your brain associates it with satisfaction.
This process requires patience—habits don’t change overnight. But with consistent effort, new, healthier patterns will take root.
Maintaining Good Habits
Once a positive habit is in place, the focus shifts to keeping it strong. You can:
Anticipate challenges: Plan for obstacles that may tempt you back into old routines.
Celebrate progress: Recognize small wins to stay motivated.
Check in regularly: Reflect on your goals and adjust as needed.
Sustaining good habits is about balance and self-compassion—perfection isn’t the goal, but steady growth is.
Tips for Building Healthy Habits
Set a clear goal: Be specific about what you want to do and how often.
Make a plan: Ask yourself when, where, and how the habit will fit into your day.
Keep it enjoyable and realistic: Choose habits that feel sustainable, not overwhelming.
Lean on social support: Surround yourself with people who encourage your growth.
Be patient with yourself: Habits take time—progress is more important than perfection.
Final Thoughts
Habits shape the way we live—sometimes in small ways, sometimes in profound ones. Whether you’re trying to break an old pattern or create a healthier routine, remember that change takes time, consistency, and compassion. Every step forward is progress, no matter how small.
At Creative Sky Psychology, we support individuals and families in Calgary as they work toward positive change. If certain habits are affecting your well-being or your child’s emotional health, therapy can provide guidance, accountability, and encouragement on the journey. Together, we can build habits that strengthen resilience and support growth.
📍 Visit us: #5, 2005 37 Street SW, Calgary, AB T3E 3A5
📞 Call: 587-331-4464 ext. 1
✉️ Email: info@creativeskypsychology.com
🌐 Book an appointment online to begin creating healthier habits for yourself or your family.
Looking for therapy for older teens, post-secondary students, or adults? Visit our sister clinic, NU Psychology in Calgary, where mental health support is available at every stage of life.
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Research suggests it can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months for a habit to stick, depending on the person and the behavior. Consistency is key—small, repeated actions become automatic over time.
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Simple habits like drinking enough water, keeping a consistent sleep schedule, taking short walks, or practicing mindfulness can make a big difference in overall well-being. Even small steps add up to lasting change.
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Yes. Therapy can provide tools for identifying unhelpful patterns, setting realistic goals, and staying accountable. Calgary therapists can also help families create routines that support both children and parents.
Research shows it can take anywhere from 21 to 66 days for a new habit to “stick.” The more consistent and rewarding the habit, the faster the brain wires it in. For kids, making habits fun and predictable helps them last.
