No such thing as trying

I am trying to rid myself of a compulsion. I have many, but I realize this one has been going on for too long when I could probably just stop doing it. The habit doesn't interfere with my daily functioning, but it's definitely been a stress-reliever for me. I want to see if, by eliminating the action, I can otherwise reduce the run-up in stress that precedes it. It's not exactly gross - just futzing with my skin and hair - but it's not something that needs a detailed explanation.

So far (about two weeks), it has been difficult - I find myself thinking about acting on the impulse, which is better than actually doing it, but this almost-action somewhat heightens the twinge of anxiety I am trying to relieve. Yesterday it came to me that I have to cut off the behavior two steps earlier to better manage the impulse. This change in pattern is even more challenging than just stopping the compulsion. Replacing the thoughts with other calming behaviors should help. I hope I can stick with it...