Habit cures habit.
This proverb means that the best way to break a bad habit is to replace it with a good one. This is a proactive strategy for breaking unwanted routines by identifying the habit's cues and triggers, then substituting the old behavior with a new one, such as exercising to replace a stress-related habit.
Here are the hints to replace a habit step by step
At first identify the cue and routine: Recognize what triggers your bad habit (the cue) and the habit itself (the routine).
Then find a replacement behavior: Consciously choose a new, positive habit to perform in place of the old one. For example, if you mindlessly scroll social media when bored, you could replace it with a quick 5-minute walk.
Next prepare for triggers: Practice the new habit during low-stress times so you're ready to use it when you feel the urge to fall back into the old pattern.
At last focus on small changes: Making small, incremental changes is more effective than trying to go "cold turkey". For instance, if you have a drink at a certain time, try swapping the alcoholic beverage for a soda to break the association before changing the entire routine.
