One common habit described is nail biting, which is due to stress, boredom, or perfectionism. Although it may seem gratifying at the time, it can result in damaged nails, infections and embarrassment.
If quitting it for good has proved a challenge, here are five easy hacks to help you break the habit.
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1. Keep Your Nails Short
It is harder to resist biting long nails. Keeping them short and well-filed makes the “bait” less immediate.
Why it works: It’s harder to grab a bite with your teeth on short nails, making biting less gratifying.
Pro tip: Buy a regular nail clipper and keep it handy.
2. Apply Bitter Nail Polish Specially formulated bitter-tasting nail polish can be a powerful deterrent.
Why it works: The nasty taste stops you in your tracks when you unconsciously bring your nails to your mouth.
Pro tip: Reapply frequently, particularly after washing your hands or showering.
3. Know Your Triggers
Nail-biting usually occurs during particular circumstances, like when you’re anxious, bored or occupied doing something like watching TV.
Why this works: By coming to know when and why you bite your nails makes it easier to take steps to avoid that environment or manage it better.
Pro tip: Maintain a diary to monitor your nail-biting habits and discover what triggers them.
4. Put Your Hands to Work
Getting those hands busy helps take the focus away from the biting. Consider stress balls, fidget spinners or even doodling.
Why it works: Having your hands busy eliminates free time to bite your nails.
Pro tip: Bring something you can do on the go, whether it’s a stress toy to squeeze on a flight or a pen for doodling.
5. Get Yourself A Manicure
A professional manicure makes your nails looking smart and can serve as a reminder to keep them that way.
Why it works: Making an investment of both time and money in your nails makes you psychologically committed to keeping them looking nice.
Pro tip: Pick nail art or colors that you love for an extra dose of motivation.
Overcoming the habit of nail-biting requires some time and practice, but these strategies make it achievable. Reward yourself for every handful of progress, cause making little steps is better than being perfect.
Hi, I’m Elizabeth A., a passionate writer with a knack for crafting engaging, thought-provoking content. I love exploring topics ranging from lifestyle and culture. I aim to inform, inspire, and connect with readers through every piece I create.