9 Bad Habits and How to Break Them

Okay, none of us are perfect (and really, we don't want to be). But there are some bad habits that deserve to be kicked to the curb, like chewing your nails or needing that 3 p.m. chocolate fix. We consulted experts for the best ways to make that happen.

By Korin Miller

Hold on to your cash!



Using ATMs That Charge
Using an ATM that isn't affiliated with your bank can really add up-especially if you do it a few times a week. Solve the problem by hitting up your bank to pull cash out on pay day-not just when you need it. Instead of using the ATM, visit the teller and ask to get your cash in bigger bills, like a 50 (research has shown we're more reluctant to spend large bills). Leave the spare cash at home, and take out what you need on Saturday night.









Put. The. Chocolate. Down.






Your Daily Chocolate Fix
Having a fully-loaded candy bar every day at 3 p.m. won't help your bikini bod. And we get it-it's a hard habit to break. You can have your chocolate and stay trim too by snacking on a 1.6 ounce bar of dark chocolate instead. It's actually good for your heart, since it's loaded with flavonoids, and that small serving won't make you pack on lbs.







Stop the biting! It's kind of gross.


Biting Your Nails
As Britney Spears recently demonstrated at the Fox Upfronts, there's nothing pretty about biting your nails. It's a tough habit to break (Brit confessed in 2008 that she was trying to quit). If you're a nail-biter, try this trick: By yourself a pretty new polish and keep it on your digits 24/7 (if you can make a cool design, even better). That way you'll be less tempted to nibble, and ruin your mani in the process.

Related: 8 Girly Habits Guys Don't Understand








Scissors were invented for a reason...




Pulling Split Ends
It's so, so tempting to rip split ends, but that habit will wreck your hair in the long run. Take away the temptation entirely by getting a regular haircut every six to eight weeks. It'll keep you from getting splits in the first place and will leave your locks looking fabulous.











Happy hour shouldn't lead to hangovers.



Going Wild at Happy Hour
There's something about two-for-one drink specials that can make even the most conservative girl go cray-cray (and feel like crap the next day). Go into happy hour ahead of time with a drink limit that you can stick with, like two cocktails for the night. Having trouble sticking with it? Alternate between alcohol and a sparkling water. Your head will thank you in the a.m.









THIS is the most important meal of the day.


Skipping Breakfast
It kinda makes sense-you eat less, you gain less. But skipping breakfast is pretty much the worst thing you can do for your bod-you end up eating more later in the day because you're so hungry, and it can also slow down your metabolism. Even if you're not hungry in the a.m., have a little something that's high in protein-Greek yogurt or an egg-white omelette if you have the time. Your waistline will thank you.

Related: 9 Ways to Live Big on a Budget








Stop sipping so much soda!





ODing on Soda
Just like needing your chocolate fix, you can easily get locked into a soda habit. Problem is, the extra sugar is bad for your bod and your teeth. Still need your bubbles? Opt for flavored seltzer, or, better yet, make your own by putting lemon or cucumber in sparkling water.









Get your beauty rest done the right way.




Sleeping With Your Contacts In
If you wear contacts, you've probably dozed off once or twice with them in. But making it a regular habit is a big no-no-it can lead to dry eyes, an increased risk of infection, and even corneal swelling (ouch). If you're a repeat offender, start setting a reminder in your phone for around the time you usually go to bed. Once it goes off, you know what to do.









Beware of the power of plastic.
Charging Things You Can't Afford
We know, we know-using your plastic is way more fun than sticking to a budget, but it ends up costing you in the long run. If you really feel like you need a credit card for emergencies, leave it at home so that you're forced to think when you need it. Better yet, start funneling a little money from each paycheck into a savings account (even $10 or $20 per check will help). That way, you have the cash when you need it.

SOURCE: Cosmo Radio women's health expert Jennifer Wider, MD, celebrity hair stylist Joel Warren, co-owner of Warren-Tricomi salons, financial expert Zac Bissonnette, author of How to Be Richer, Smarter, And Better-Looking Than Your Parents






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