How to Change Your Habits: The Power of Environment and Determination

Changing habits can be one of the toughest challenges we face. Good habits are hard to establish, while bad habits can be even harder to break. As Spring arrives, the habit of staying in bed due to the darkness and cool air becomes easier to change. With the sun rising earlier and the air warming up, getting out of bed feels less of a struggle. This simple yet natural process teaches us a powerful lesson: changing your environment makes changing your habits easier.

Why Changing Your Environment is Key to Habit Change

Most of us have habits that aren’t in our best interest. Rather than solely focusing on breaking these habits, consider changing your environment. Research has shown that we are highly influenced by the people around us. If you want to be successful, surround yourself with successful individuals. On the other hand, if you want to engage in reckless behavior, it’s easy to fall into the wrong crowd—whether that means joining motorcycle gangs or embracing harmful lifestyles.

This principle applies not only in social settings but also in spiritual and personal growth. Many spiritual giants have developed strong moral habits, and part of their success lies in the people they choose to surround themselves with—like-minded individuals who encourage them to stay on the right path. As Proverbs 16:3 states: “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and He will establish your plans.”

The Power of Persistence in Changing Habits

Changing your habits takes time, effort, and determination. It’s important to remember that setbacks are a natural part of the process. You will stumble, but what matters most is your ability to get back up and keep pushing forward. Winston Churchill once said:

“Never give in. Never, never, never, never—in nothing, great or small, large or petty—never give in except to convictions of honor and good sense. Never yield to force; never yield to the apparently overwhelming might of the enemy.”

Stay determined, and remember that every small victory brings you closer to the change you desire.

"And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God." -Romans 12:2 (NKJV)