When we brought home our new puppy Jax, the fog trainer we hired emphasized the need to establish a strict routine with the dog: Sticking to an exact schedule of feeding times, crate times, walks, play times etc. The reason we were provided: Dogs LOVE and respond well to routines and their behaviors will be best maximized by sticking to these routines.
Humans are obviously a much higher life form than canines. BUT, we similarly become quite comfortable in our routines. When we eat, the time we bed down for the night, the shows we watch, when we exercise, etc etc.
These “ROUTINES” also extend to our eating, drinking and exercise behaviors. Many of us become routinized in such behaviors as:
- Nighttime snacking and what exactly we snack on
- Having predinner or after dinner alcohol containing drinks
- Accompaniments to our main course for meals (such as fries with the burger, chips with a sandwich)
- Getting the extra time in bed in the morning as opposed to going to the gym
When we are in a weight losing mode, we all need to change our routines. We must remember that these “ROUTINES” led to the weight problem. Unless we are willing and able to change these routines, the weight will not come down. Is it easy to change routines? Heck no! Try to change your dog’s routines and see what transpires. Changing your own? Equally difficult.
We are all “Creatures Of Habit” and yes, it is difficult to change these habits/routines, but we must to obtain a healthier and happier life.
Enjoy Chicago’s ‘Hard Habit To Break”
