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The Slippery Nature of Habits: Reflections from My European Adventure

The Slippery Nature of Habits: Reflections from My European Adventure

I have just returned from the incredible opportunity of traveling through Europe with my mother. We embarked on a journey filled with exploration, adventure, and of course, indulging in the local cuisine and drinks. As someone who has spent years working on improving my health habits, this trip served as a reminder of the constant battle we face in maintaining positive habits. Habits show up everywhere and all the time regardless of our desire to acknowledge them or not. It can be frustrating and discouraging when old patterns resurface, but it also humbles me and allows me to empathize with others on similar journeys.


Habits in Motion:

Habits are not set in stone, as we often believe. They are fluid and subject to change. We have the choice to alter our habits for the better or worse. Sometimes, a healthy habit that has been working well for us suddenly falters, while an old, unhealthy habit resurfaces, leaving us feeling defeated and powerless. However, a single event, person, or experience can shift our focus and empower us to build something new, leading to amazing joy.


Choosing the Right Motion:

Habits are constantly in motion, and it is up to us to decide the direction we want to take. During my vacation, there were moments when I felt overwhelmed by the abundance of food and drink around me, making it difficult to believe that my efforts could make a difference. However, I found solace in the steps I took each day, the conscious choices I made to limit my indulgences, and the knowledge that I was nourishing my body with healthier options even amidst unhealthier ones.


The Power of Community:

Returning from my vacation, I am grateful to be part of a community of individuals who are also striving to build healthy habits. This community is made up of imperfect people who are honest about their struggles and transparent about the patterns they feel stuck in. Witnessing their journeys, both the successes and the struggles, provides me with a sense of comfort and motivation to continue on my own path towards health.


Embracing the Journey:

There is no end date or set time for this race towards health. It is a lifelong journey that requires constant attention and effort. While we may have control over many aspects of our lives, there are certain things, like the passing of life, that we cannot control entirely. Therefore, I choose to focus my attention on the positive habits I am cultivating, while acknowledging the areas where I still stumble. I turn to the Lord for guidance and strength, knowing that it is for freedom that Christ has set me free (Galatians 5:1).


Conclusion:

Habits have the power to either create freedom or enslave us. As I reflect on my European adventure and the slippery nature of habits, I am reminded of the importance of choosing the right motion. Today, I choose to run after positive habits that lead me towards freedom and health. The journey may be challenging, but with the support of my community and the guidance of the Lord, I am confident in my ability to continue moving forward.


What about you? Where do you find yourself in any of what I shared? Can you relate and what might help you in your patterns and habits surrounding your health today?

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