Why is it so hard to make or break a habit?

Photo by Antonio Rodriguez Davia via Unsplash

Every time I go to the dentist, we have the same conversation.

They remind me, kindly and patiently, how important it is to floss. I nod. I agree. I already know this. Logically, it makes complete sense.

And yet.

It’s taken me until just the past year or so to actually start flossing a few times a week.

Which begs the question: why was it so hard to implement such a simple, healthy habit?

One big reason is neural pathways. These beautiful communication superhighways are what make our daily lives possible without overwhelming our brains. They allow us to walk, talk, drive, swim, ride a bike, and type without having to consciously think through every tiny step.

But we didn’t learn to do any of those things overnight.

They took weeks, months, sometimes years of repetition before they became deeply ingrained—before they felt almost instinctive.

Habits work the same way.

Repetition makes them easier and easier, but first we have to blaze that neurological trail. And that initial trailblazing? It can feel surprisingly hard, especially when the habit itself seems “simple.”

Here are a few things that have helped me make flossing—and other habits—more doable.

1. Link the habit to something satisfying

For me, I’ve learned to lean into the parts I genuinely enjoy.

I really do relish that clean feeling after flossing. I also feel a quiet sense of satisfaction knowing I’m helping keep my teeth healthy long-term.

Is it a little dorky? Maybe.

But it works for me right now, so I’m leaning into it instead of judging it.

2. Make the habit the easy option (and add a visual cue)

I keep the floss right next to my toothpaste, so I see it every single time I brush.

When I noticed I was almost out, I immediately added it to my shopping list—because friction matters. If it’s not there, I won’t do it.

I’ve also stopped trying to floss first thing in the morning or right before bed, when I’m rushed or exhausted and always think, I’ll do it tomorrow.

Instead, I floss over my lunch break, when I have more time and more patience.

3. Be patient with yourself

Right now, I’m flossing about two days a week. I have to stop myself from saying “only,” because it’s probably far from what my dental hygienist would love, but it’s far more than I’ve ever done before. This year, my goal is to work up to every other day.

As much as I wish I were someone who starts strong and exceeds my own expectations, reality has taught me something important: Slow and steady gets me farther.

Habits aren’t built through shame or white-knuckled discipline. They’re built through repetition, compassion, and making the next right step just a little easier than the last.

Having a supportive person at your side can help smooth the road and build momentum. If you’d like to talk through your plan with a coach and create a strategy you feel confident in, tap the black “Let’s Chat” button and schedule a session with me. Cheers to habits that fuel our dreams and help us feel our best in 2026!