6 Tips to Break Bad Habits Like Nail Biting

When deciding to quit something you’re accustomed to do, at some point, you will feel the urge to do it again and
will probably get back to it. It will discourage your motivation and you would finally give in to your habits. That is
why it is important not to expect your habits to fade just from the first try. Learn to forgive yourself if you ever
relapse and give yourself time. You need to know that habits are born with time and will take time to die.
2) Most Habits are genetically transferred.
Some habit-doers worry that there is a great problem or an unidentified deep reason behind their habits.
Fortunately, it’s been proven that most of those habits are usually genetically transferred and are common in the
family. This behavior has been noticed in humans as well as animals. Hence, it’s good to know that you are not
alone and you are absolutely normal.
3) Seek help from someone who cares.
Once a person sets their mind to achieve something, nothing seems impossible. Imagine what it would be like if
two people set their minds to achieving that goal? A friend in need is a friend indeed, and having a friend who
would let you know every time you are spotted doing that bad habit would help in getting you back on track!
4) Keep a journal.
Sometimes, looking at a picture from another perspective can help you see things differently and more clearly. This
works with habits too, you might need to get them out of your head and write them down for your eyes to analyze.
Once you write them down you’re in control of them instead of them taking over your head. You should also
document the progress you’ve reached to motivate you and make you look forward for further improvement.
5) Know your triggers.
Notice what urges you to bite that nail or pull that hair. For instance, if you find yourself looking for an uneven part
on the tips of your nails stop the search as it would urge you to bite your nails even. Once you notice such an
action, switch into another action that distracts the feeling away.
6) Make it harder for you to do that habit.
The urge will start to get weaker once you feel that there is much effort needed to do it. For instance, putting your
hands in vinegar would make it repulsive for you to bite you nails and the effort needed for you to get up and wash
your hands would help you, with time, to stop doing that habit. This works as well as you finding a more satisfying
and less harmful alternative.