The first 3 weeks I was away in North America, I put my life on the line when I crossed the road, I caused mayhem on footpaths when I was running and I continually went to the driver’s door when I was going anywhere by car. 

Four weeks in, running upstate New York, with no footpaths, I had to run on roads through forests; the twists and turns are frightening when you’re still figuring out which way a car might be approaching from and I had a couple of hair raising experiences- you'll have to imagine me flying into a hedge of nettle and startling a deer.

 I thought at the time, ‘I’ll never get this!’

I’d spent my whole life on autopilot:  “ look right, look left, look right again”.

I was hardwired.

 I resigned myself to having near death experiences in California as well and I did that on a few occasions. The times I realised I’d got it right, I congratulated myself and thought, ‘I’m such a local!’  (I should note here that I’m glad I didn’t take up my husband’s idea of renting a car, I’ve done it before but over several months and with my trusty co-pilot beside me!)

As I write this, I’ve been home 17 days. I assumed I’d just slip right back into all my old habits and routines but no. I have a new habit of running on the RIGHT, all the time, of moving to the right when people are coming toward me and causing all kinds of upsets especially when it comes to strollers and bikes. (Bikes on narrow paths beside the sea are not that flexible, who knew!)

I’m fine while I concentrate on it: ‘Left…left….left!’

But inevitably my mind drifts and so too, my legs.

I ran straight into an old man this morning.

“ Hello!” I said effusively, “ How are you!”

 “ Much better now love, you made my day!” He replied.

So here’s where I’m going with this.

After seven weeks away, I have unintentionally developed a new habit. My simple “ I’ll just take extra care” has become my brain now looking out for me all day. Without even trying. 

So If I can do that without really wanting to: what about creating or changing a habit INTENTIONALLY? Or how can I unlearn this habit that no longer serves me? 

Downunder, we’re about to enjoy a break from routine, if you have kids, it’s 7 weeks worth. My question is, since your routine is up the boohai anyway, what else could you throw into the mix that you might accidentally find hardwired come February?

Something small, something doable, something you just remind yourself about occasionally, like “ Oh that’s right, I have juice before coffee!’’ Or maybe it’s a physical goal such as taking a walk around the block before brekky each day; a spiritual one like thinking of things you’re grateful for before you start your day:I find this especially powerful during holiday season when some things can test our limits!

 My challenge to you then is to come up with something, maybe a piece of a larger goal and stick with it. What will it be?

Decide.

Begin.

And if you start to drift? Just remind yourself to Keep Left.