Word on the street is that the most successful people are the most habitual people. Habits force you to set boundaries and make choices that honor your goals on a daily basis. Good habits, like eating healthily, practicing your craft, keeping your living space clean, are a form of self-respect.
Forming good habits are hard and require constant self-discipline. Here are three tips that I am using to help me:
1. Identifying the positive value you gain from the task. This can help remind you why you’re having a turkey sandwich instead of pizza or making the bed even though you really don’t feel like it. A task is much easier to repeat each day when you clearly understand it's benefit. So, make a list of why you’re doing it.
For example, I want to a write a rough draft every morning because it:
- Stimulates my mind and boosts my sense of self.
- Makes for a happier day.
- Sets the tone for a productive day.
- Absolutely ensures that I will practice writing that day. (My goal is to become a better writer).
- Usually means I will write again in the afternoon.
I’ve posted my benefit list over my desk. This reminds me why I am sacrificing sleeping past six, a morning work out, or diving into other projects.
2. Identify What You Will Sacrifice. Life is filled with enticing options and committing to a habit means we must sacrifice. And sacrificing can be a big downer. Here’s a few things one must consistently sacrifice to build daily habits:
- Spontaneity. It’s a gorgeous morning but I am not headed to the beach with the pooch or wandering down Fillmore for a coffee. Nope. I am at my desk writing my rough draft.
- Laziness and Procrastination. Sorry snooze button and Facebook, I will not be checking in this morning.
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