How to break this habit

Instructions: Difficulty:

Challenging

Step
1

The first thing required to stop any habit is to understand why you do it. Determine what triggers cause you to bite your nails. Make a conscious effort to stop the habit. Once you know the triggers, you can make a effort to not bite your nails when those situations arise.

Step
2

Take pictures of your nails so you can chart the progress you are making. This could be before and after pictures or multiple pictures along the way. This can help you see a definite result to your progress.

Step
3

You can consider using rewards as an incentive to stop. Set a goal of something you want and reward yourself for meeting goals. It could be a trip to the manicurist or even a shopping trip.

Step
4

If rewards do not work, you might try aversion therapy. You can use a jar that you put change in every time you bite your nails. There is also a form where you complete a task for every time you slip. Some people use bracelets, every time you bite your nails you switch the bracelet to the other wrist. This technique will quickly show you how bad the habit is.

Step
5

You might also consider a physical aversion to the habit. Many people use fingernail polish or nasty tasting products to cover their nails.

Step
6

Find a distraction to stop you from biting your nails. You might chew gum or pick up a hobby, like embroidery or crocheting that requires the constant use of your hands.

Step
7

Once you have slowed your habit and your nails begin to grow, carry clippers and an emery board with you. Many people will fall back into old habits because a nail breaks and needs to be bitten off.

Step
8

The biggest issue you will have to overcome is patience. Research shows that it takes an average of 21 days to break any habit and two in three people pick the habit back up in the first six months. Stick with it and you will surely see results.