It was a beautiful day (a rarity right now) by the pool. Ocoee (pronounced: ah-co-ee. Aka my dog) came running to join me, taking a shortcut through the freshly mulched flower patch. We laid together there, Ocoee wandering around every now and then to see my mom, sister, and the kids. I swear she thought she was the lifeguard. 

After about 10 minutes, my mom declares she is putting Ocoee on the line (the leash up on the porch, which is usually only for punishment or if I have to leave for a few minutes). I asked why, and she said because she ran through the mulch. I told her no, and she got upset. It was not until she allowed me to explain myself that the obvious storm brewing on the horizon (caused by saying “no” to your mom) calmed down. 

It is all about consistency. 

Ocoee has been on the farm for 3-months now without being told that running through the mulch was a problem. So, punishing her for that is inconsistent and cruel. If you want results, you need to be consistent. I laid this out in a plan:

• Whenever you see her run into the mulch, say “No Ocoee” in a firm tone and immediately (as she is doing it).
• If she does not listen, tie her up. (Also immediately, and after the first command is ignored). 

You have to do these things immediately, as it is happening, so the dog connects that what they are doing – right here and now- is what is wrong. 

If they choose not to listen to you, then they will try again and see what they can get away with.

Guess what- this does not just apply to dogs. 

This applies to all of us, especially our subconscious. If you have unhealthy habits/patterns, it is because you have let them go too long unchecked. If you start to notice them, and tell them “no” as they are happening (ie; by diverting your attention to what you want to change), then you can reset the pattern. 

But, like with Ocoee, it takes consistency. 

Be firm with yourself. Even your subconscious will see what it can get away with. The ego does not want to change, it wants to stay exactly as it is. You have to hold the firm hand with it. 

Recall how I made a plan for Ocoee to stay consistent and train her mind? Do the same for yourself. Remember to be compassionate as well; just as punishing Ocoee for not knowing what she did was wrong, the same goes for you. You can be firm and compassionate at the same time. Know that it takes time to reset and reform yourself, your habits, and your patterns.