Why It’s So Hard to Change Habits
Fighting Against Your Environment
Generational Wealth Builders
"First they ignore you, then they laugh at you, then they fight you, then you win."
— Mahatma Gandhi
Changing habits is one of the most challenging journeys anyone can undertake. It requires more than just willpower—it demands a reevaluation of your environment, relationships, and the patterns that have been ingrained over years or even decades.
Why is it so hard? One of the biggest reasons is the environment you’re in makes it difficult to sustain new behaviors. For years, your surroundings—friends, family, your kitchen cupboards, social expectations—have been molded in a way that supports your current habits. These patterns often feel like the easiest path forward, and as humans, we naturally gravitate toward what feels familiar and comfortable.
There’s a powerful quote that resonates deeply with this struggle: “Most prefer the certainty of misery over the misery of uncertainty.” If this is true for you, it’s also true for the people around you.
The Resistance to Change
When you decide to change your habits, whether it’s eating healthier, exercising regularly, or giving up alcohol, it doesn’t just affect you—it creates discomfort for those around you. They’ve come to rely on your old patterns, and your change disrupts their sense of certainty.
Here’s the hard truth: the people around you, consciously or unconsciously, may try to pull you back to your old ways. It’s not because they don’t care—it’s because your change challenges their own behaviors and beliefs.
Personal Stories of Resistance
Adopting Healthier Eating Habits
When I decided to adopt healthier eating habits, it was a challenge. My family wasn’t necessarily on the same page, and our meals no longer looked the same. At times, I felt like an outsider at the table or that I wasn’t fully participating in the shared family experience.
Even more challenging was introducing these habits to my kids. I often came across as the “bad guy” for encouraging healthier choices instead of letting them enjoy their usual treats. It wasn’t easy, but I stayed consistent, believing that leading by example was the best way to encourage positive change in the long term.
Breaking Away from Old Social Circles
In my late 20s and early 30s, I decided to stop partying and drinking. It wasn’t easy breaking off from a group of friends I regularly spent time with. I felt isolated and even judged—as though choosing a healthier lifestyle made me weak or boring.
Looking back, I realize it wasn’t weakness at all. It was strength. Walking away from those patterns wasn’t just a decision to better myself—it was an uphill battle against an environment that wanted me to stay the same.
The Truth About Change
The path to change is not an easy one, but it’s worth it. Every step you take away from your old habits and toward better ones demonstrates strength, courage, and leadership. The reality is that when you commit to this path, you’re not just transforming yourself—you’re setting an example for everyone around you. You’re showing them that change is possible, even when it’s uncomfortable.
Action Plan: Handling Resistance and Staying the Course
When you know your environment will try to pull you back into old habits, you can prepare for it. Here’s how:
Expect Resistance
Understand that others may feel uncomfortable with your changes. They might criticize, resist, or even try to tempt you back into old patterns. Expect it. Knowing it will happen allows you to respond calmly and with intention.Set Boundaries
Politely but firmly let others know what you’re committed to. For example: “I’m choosing to eat differently because it makes me feel better,” or “I’m cutting back on drinking to focus on my health.”Have a Response Plan
Prepare for common situations that could derail you. For instance:If friends pressure you to drink, have a go-to response like, “I’m good with water tonight—thanks for understanding.”
If family comments on your meals, say, “This is just what works for me right now.”
Focus on Your ‘Why’
Remind yourself why you’re making this change. Whether it’s better health, more energy, or being a role model for your kids, keeping your “why” front and center will help you stay grounded.Surround Yourself with Support
Seek out people who uplift and encourage your new habits. This might mean finding new friends, joining a group with similar goals, or leaning on a mentor for guidance.Celebrate Small Wins
Recognize and reward yourself for progress, no matter how small. Every healthy meal, every skipped drink, every workout completed is a victory worth celebrating.Lead by Example
Your actions will speak louder than words. Over time, others may be inspired by your consistency and strength. You can’t force them to change, but you can show them what’s possible.
Final Thoughts: Becoming the Leader
Making significant changes in your habits and lifestyle is one of the hardest yet most rewarding journeys you can take. It’s a demonstration of your strength and commitment, not just to yourself but to those around you.
Expect challenges, prepare for resistance, and stay the course. Because when you do, you’re not only improving your life—you’re leading the charge for others to follow.
At Generational Wealth Builders, we’re here to guide you through these challenges and provide the tools to create lasting change for yourself and your family. Change is hard, but it’s always worth it. 💪