Out of Habit

I've been thinking lately. Ultimately , who we are is determined by our habits. So, what is a habit? It's a simple word we all know, but this definition adds a little depth. (http://www.thefreedictionary.com/habit)

hab·it (hbt)

n.

1. a. A recurrent, often unconscious pattern of behavior that is acquired through frequent repetition.

b. An established disposition of the mind or character.

2. Customary manner or practice: a person of ascetic habits.

3. An addiction, especially to a narcotic drug.

4. Physical constitution.

5. Characteristic appearance, form, or manner of growth, especially of a plant or crystal.

6.

a. A distinctive dress or costume, especially of a religious order.

b. A riding habit.

I'm not planning on putting on a habit and start dressing like a nun or taking up horse riding however, habits do include the clothes we wear and the way we roll or ride. If we are not careful with our choices, pretty soon, undesirable habits may be taking us for a ride.
It's interesting, never once in my life, did I say, I want to be a big fat lady. However every day my choices and habits have shaped my body, my mind and spirit.

Benjamin Franklin is my hero when it comes to developing character he listed the following habits and character virtues that he was striving to develop.

1. TEMPERANCE. Eat not to dullness; drink not to elevation.
2. SILENCE. Speak not but what may benefit others or yourself; avoid trifling conversation.
3. ORDER. Let all your things have their places; let each part of your business have its time.
4. RESOLUTION. Resolve to perform what you ought; perform without fail what you resolve.
5. FRUGALITY. Make no expense but to do good to others or yourself; i.e., waste nothing.
6. INDUSTRY. Lose no time; be always employ'd in something useful; cut off all unnecessary actions.
7. SINCERITY. Use no hurtful deceit; think innocently and justly, and, if you speak, speak accordingly.
8. JUSTICE. Wrong none by doing injuries, or omitting the benefits that are your duty.
9. MODERATION. Avoid extremes; forbear resenting injuries so much as you think they deserve.
10. CLEANLINESS. Tolerate no uncleanliness in body, cloaths, or habitation.
11. TRANQUILLITY. Be not disturbed at trifles, or at accidents common or unavoidable.
12. CHASTITY. Rarely use venery but for health or offspring, never to dulness, weakness, or the injury of your own or another's peace or reputation.
13. HUMILITY. Imitate Jesus and Socrates.

What an inspired man! I'm going strive to be more like my friend Ben and have the courage to evaluate my flaws and strive to develop into the person I want to be. Making a conscious choice to stop allowing bad habits to choose for me.