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<p>Bad habits may be hard to change, but it can be done. Enlist the help of friends, co-workers and family for some extra support. The good news is humans are not simply creatures of habit. We have many more brain regions to help us do what’s best for our health. Activate them!</p>
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<p><strong>To break bad habits try these tips:</strong></p>
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<p><strong>Avoid tempting situations. </strong>If you always stop for a donut on your way to work, try a different route. Keep fatty foods, cigarettes, alcohol and other tempting items out of your home.</p>
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<p><strong>Replace unhealthy behaviors with healthy ones. </strong>Try exercise (it’s a much healthier habit to replace a bad one with), a favorite hobby or spending time with family.</p>
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<p><strong>Prepare mentally. </strong>If you can’t avoid a tempting situation, prepare yourself in advance. Think about how you want to handle it and mentally practice what you plan.</p>
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<p><strong>Enlist support. </strong>Ask friends, family and coworkers to support your efforts to change.</p>
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<p><strong>Reward yourself for small steps. </strong>Give yourself a healthy treat when you’ve achieved a small goal or milestone. <br><br><em>Exclusive content from CARE magazine</em></p>
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