Achieving the results that we desire in business and in life depends on a many factors. One of the most important ones is our ability to form productive habits.
So, what does it take to create a productive habit? Here are 5-steps that can help you achieve the results you desire and deserve:
- 1. Clarify Your Goal. Be crystal clear of what habit you want to change or create. Write it down. Visualize yourself having created it. For example: I want to exercise-run. I vividly see myself running 15-minutes, four times each week. It feels great!
- 2. Discover Your Purpose. Note many strong and compelling reasons as to why you are committed to creating your new habit. What will it mean for you when you accomplish this? What are all the inherent benefits of developing the new behavior? Write them down. For example: By working out, I will feel better, I will experience more energy, less stress, I will enjoy more vitality and build strength.
- 3. Take Action! Take the first and easiest step toward creating your new habit- the one of least resistance. Remember, as Lao Tzu said, “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” Just go for it! For example: Right now, I will go for a fast- paced 5-minute walk.
- 4. Create and Build on Repetition. Build momentum by repeating the first step and build on it! Typically, in 21 to 40 days, you will have developed your new habit. For example: I will go for a fast- paced, five- minute walk today, tomorrow and Saturday. Next week, I will go for a 15- minute walk four days. Eventually, I will jog for 15-minutes, four times a week.
- 5. Celebrate! Even if the celebration is symbolic, make sure that you treat yourself for creating a new positive habit! You have accomplished something important and deserve to celebrate. For example: Treat yourself to a movie or buy a book- just reward yourself in a small but meaningful way.
One of the most important factors for achieving the results that we desire is our ability to form productive habits.
What is one new habit that you would like to create professionally and/or personally?
Exercise daily?
Make consistently more sales calls?
Reach out to clients daily?
Have productive weekly Team meetings?
Start from Step 1 and continue!
Make sure to celebrate!
