THE FORCE OF HABIT

         A habit once formed in hard to give up. It becomes a part of our personality and makeup. For example, a person who has the habit of smoking or drinking or gambling finds it almost impossible to give it up. It also applies to such undesirable habits as chewing our nails, picking the nose or be for ever fidgeting while talking or backbiting. They are a lot on our character. We should try to keep away from them if we wish to impress others in our day-to-day life. We should try to develop good habits right from our childhood so that we can keep them with us for the rest of our lives.

         One of the habits we should develop is that cleanliness and hygiene. A neat and tidy appearance is an asset. It will stand us in good stead for the rest of our life. One need not be rich or well-to-do to appear clean and wholesome. It is just a matter of habit that can be learnt from one’s elders, teachers and parents.        

         We must develop such habits as conform with accepted social norms as appearing cheerful and confident when we interact with others. We should not discuss our problems before outsiders when we meet them for the first time as they are likely to make fun of us and from a poor impression. On our part, we should not look down upon others who have developed this habit.

         Tolerance of others’ viewpoint is another desirable habit. Just as a coin has two sides, every issue has its pros and cons. We should not appear to be irritated when others say or do something that is not our liking. If we develop the habit of tolerance, it will stay with us.

          If we are ever willing to help others and cooperate with them from the early stages of our life, it becomes a habit with us. We are forced to help people whenever they are in trouble or are passing through difficult times. And this force of habit pays us rich dividends in life.

         It is, therefore, essential that we develop good habits so that we follow them unconsciously all through our life. The force of habit will compel us to act in ways that will be beneficial to us and be a source of pleasure and comfort to others.