[meetlaw]

I am a nonconformist by nature. This has created some maladaptive social habits on my part. I tend to think that people don't trust me because of my differences. Therefore I would like to become more normal.

At the same time I am trying to complete an online course by Leo Babuta that focuses on self-improvement. I have read that trying to create more than one habit at the same is not a good idea. I have also read that changing two habits at once can be done if they are both related.

Should I try to do both or stick to one?

Additionally, the social problem can cause great distress for me as I feel social rejection and obsess over the situation. Is it worth seeing a psychologist for?

[Skeezyks]

Hello svgandhi: I believe it was the Buddhist master Shantideva who said the real miracle is the changing of one bad habit. Not knowing what the two habits you want to change are, it's hard to know what to suggest. But in general I would say it's difficult enough to change a bad habit (or adopt a new one) that it's probably best to take them one at a time.

As far as the social problem that causes you great distress goes, the fact that it causes you great distress would, it seems to me, be reason enough to talk it through with someone. It may not be necessary to see a psychologist in particular. Depending on what services are available to you where you live, seeing a skilled mental health therapist may be a good option as well. Continuing to post, here on PC, with regard to what's going on with you may help too.

I see this is your first post here on PC. So... to PsychCentral… from the Skeezyks! May the time you spend here be of benefit.

PsychCentral is a great place to get information as well as support for mental health issues. The more you post, & reply to other members’ posts, the more a part of the community you will become. Plus there are social groups you can join & chat rooms where you’ll be able to connect with other PC members in real time (once your first 5 posts have been reviewed & approved.) Lots of great stuff! So please keep posting!

[Sunflower123]

If the two goals are in the same ball park, it would be possible to work on both.

Yes, if something is causing you continued stress and is impacting you negatively then I would encourage you to see a psychologist.

Good luck with your habit changes and best wishes.

[Teddy Bear]

Good luck with your habit changes ��.