The Practical Guide to Habit Formation

Experts contend that it takes 10-14 weeks to convert a bad habit into a good one. We all have bad habits that we intend to fix. Often, we have spouses who are happy to identify our failings that need reform. 

I’d like to zero in on a meddlesome habit that is rapidly declining in America, much to the detriment of our citizens: the underuse of turn signals. When we acquired our driver’s license, we were taught to use turn signals by using our vehicle’s blinker every time we turned left or right. It was a courtesy to fellow drivers and others on the road that you were “signaling” where you intended to go. 

With all of the sturm and drang about broken tail lights, you’d think that police would also be pulling drivers over for failing to signal their intent. But apparently not. I perceive three overwhelming reasons for drivers abandoning the courtesy of signaling where they are going:

• They may be driving one-handed with the other hand occupied with a coffee cup or cell phone.
• Going to the effort seems too great an ask.
• They only signal IF they see a driver that needs forewarning.
  

In reality, if a driver learns the habit for every turn made, it will become habitual. It will also not be seen as a nuisance; and pedestrians, cyclists, and all sharing the road will be safer if our drivers become ingrained in the habit of using their turn signals. 

So, remember, pledge to yourself that you will:

• Go to bed every night at 10 PM,
• Change from cream to low-fat milk in your coffee,
• For security reasons, lock the back door after each use, 
• Recycle your newspapers,
• Drink two ounces of Kombucha each day, or
• Call your mother every Sunday morning.
  

Twelve weeks later, your intended change in your behavior will likely have become a habit that you don’t even think about. Start small (i.e., if you’ve tried to quit smoking and failed a dozen times) and work up to your big challenge in behavioral change. Good luck.

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