Meditating My Way Into a New Habit

For a few years now, I have wanted to have a daily meditation practice. But it always seemed so hard! I would sit for a few minutes once in awhile, get distracted by my thoughts and give up. I never could develop a consistent practice.

I mean, I already hike the butte and go to yoga almost every morning. How am I supposed to fit anything else in before work?! I finally realized it would take intention and accountability to get this going.

On December 1st, I posted that I would meditate everyday during the month of December. It’s just a month! What’s the worst that could happen? I was glad to see that a few people joined me in this challenge and I even found an accountability partner.

At first I would forget. I would get Raychel’s text that she completed her meditation. “Shit!” So I would meditate that night. Other days, I would be rushing around my morning and wonder when I was going to fit in another 20 minutes. While I was sitting, all I could think about was all the things I had to do that day.

Isn’t meditation supposed to be relaxing and not stressful?!

It really takes something to create a new habit. It’s so much easier to wake up and just lay in bed. But a habit can get created when we are committed to something bigger in our lives. I started my daily hike and yoga practice because I’m committed to my health and well-being. I don’t always feel like getting out of bed to hike in the rain, but I do, because the rewards are so much greater.

I’m also committed to ease and peace of mind and excited to share that I now have a daily meditation practice even beyond my December challenge. I know that meditation is a long game, and will truly see the transformative benefits as my practice develops and unfolds over time.

And I have quite an empowering collection of morning rituals: I write in my dream journal, meditate, practice yoga and hike the butte. By 9am, I feel connected and ready to take on the rest of my day.

What is one thing that you have you wanted to incorporate in your day? Give it a try! Set your intention, distinguish your commitment, find an accountability partner or structure to fulfill on your goal, and take action now matter how you feel. Be the driver of your life.