Rituals vs Habits

Which one is better ?

Habits get a bad rap. The mere mention sets you off thinking in the direction of addiction . I guess the small folks from the Shire probably had the same predicament. (He’s a Hobbit ! ). So, while there may be good habits and bad habits ( like good Hobbits and bad Hobbits !), the standard predisposition would be towards the dark side !

Enter the world of Rituals. While, they may actually mean the same thing as Good Habits,( a set of actions that follow a pre-defined pattern) they don’t get the same bad rap. Who would ever say “He has a Meth Ritual !” ??!

Also, Rituals have got their identity from Religion.

Wikipedia definition : A ritual “is a sequence of activities involving gestures, words, and objects, performed in a sequestered place, and performed according to set sequence.”[1] Rituals may be prescribed by the traditions of a community, including a religious community.

Here is the definition of Habit : A habit (or wont) is a routine of behavior that is repeated regularly and tends to occur unconsciously

So, its the tedency of Habits which are “unconscious” which probably contribute to the bad rap. When its unconscious, you don’t know what you are really doing and most of the times that may be bad !

Whereas, Rituals have specific actions which the society has adopted for a “good reason” and when you follow them, you normally get kudos for it !

Here’s what Bil Phillips from Strength for life, says about this :

“People tend to talk in terms of ‘good habits’ and ‘bad habits,’ but I prefer to think in terms of rituals and habits. Think about it. Whenever you hear someone say, ‘She has a habit of –’ the thing that comes next is rarely positive. The difference between rituals and habits is that you choose to do rituals; you have some degree of awareness and intention. People tend to admire your rituals.”

So, what “rituals” are you creating in your life which will help you take your day/week/life to the next level of experience ?

It could be rituals around fitness, learning, human connection, etc. I am a huge believer and “implementer” of rituals ! They literally make my world tick !