How to Recognize and Change Toxic Behavioral Patterns

Patterns generally involve repetitive action, a task or behavior engaged in frequently, often without giving it much thought. Much daily behavior is fairly automatic, an activity done so many times that it feels comfortable and there’s no inherent harm in it. Or, it’s a behavior that we’re reluctant to change because of a reward associated with it. Toxic behavioral patterns are also often automatic, don’t necessarily present themselves as inherently harmful, and they’re more likely to continue due to the associated reward.  Some patterns have caused trouble in the past, are currently contributing to problems at home, work or elsewhere, yet it may be difficult to recognize and change them. And it’s necessary to be able to recognize behavioral patterns that are toxic before deciding on ways to halt and change them.  Even when we recognize toxic behavior, we’re still reluctant to change. We may want to change, yet remain fearful of doing so. Getting past fears of the unknown may be an insurmountable obstacle. Hearing from others that change is good and should be embraced does little to mitigate such fear. The truth is that overcoming fear is a uniquely personal process Still, listening to the recommendations of others about what worked effectively for them can be very helpful in motivating those resistant to change to embark on such self-improvement. Indeed, sometimes it is only after hearing this type of encouragement that true change can begin.  So, recognizin...
Source: World of Psychology - Category: Psychiatry & Psychology Authors: Tags: Alcoholism Habits Self-Help Substance Abuse alcholism Habit Change Personal Growth Source Type: blogs