Tips To Being Consistent
Tips To Being Consistent
Perhaps the biggest problem with people trying to make a difference in their lives is that they never take too many steps. Perhaps the second biggest problem is that they don't take consistent action for long periods of time. Consistency really isn't the hottest or most exciting word in personal development. But this is what will bring real results in your life over time. Sticking to a schedule and doing something consistently, not just when you feel motivated or something, is very powerful.
This is also, at least for now, one of the most frustrating parts of personal development for me. Some days go well. Some days they really don't. Some days end somewhere in between.
Therefore there is no point in striving for elusive perfection in any sphere of life. And variations and setbacks are exciting and priceless aspects of life. But improvements can still be made.
These tips can help you with the time it takes (about 21 to 45 days in my experience) to easily establish a new habit in your life. These can be used whenever you have a habit as you will still have bad days or slip ups.
1. Use the morning ritual.
This is probably the most powerful advice I have ever received in this area.
Just set a morning routine as soon as you wake up. This works great because what you do in the day often sets the context for your day.
As human beings, we have a strong tendency to agree with what we have done before. This is a big reason why a bad start often leads to a bad day, and a good start often leads to a good day.
2. Don't hurt yourself.
Realize that when you're frustrated and don't think and do what you really want, you're hurting yourself by undermining your self-esteem.
Everything you do during the day gives you an indication of the kind of person you are. Do whatever it takes to be efficient, get good, or go to the gym and you'll feel great.
Be lazy, negative, or just plain mean and you end up feeling bad after a while. You don't run, you can't run alone. And there is always a price to be paid.
3. Focus on the process and take responsibility for it, not the potential outcome.
I am not responsible for the consequences in my head. I take responsibility for introducing myself and doing my training. The results of losing 26 pounds that spring still came from all that relentless action.
And it makes it easier for me to do these measures when I know that's all I need to focus on. Instead of using up half the energy and concentration, I hope to "achieve my real goal very soon".
Pay attention to the process and if you were blind to the potential consequences you would be more relaxed and inclined to move on which will never come as fast as you and which will put you on an emotional roller coaster ride day after day.
4. Find and do what you love or enjoy doing.
When you love, or at least love, what you do every week, it's always easier to keep on a schedule.
5. Let go of your old photos.
A few years ago, I saw myself as someone who didn't eat healthily or do sports and exercise. When I started doing it a little more, I still felt like the person I felt while being unwell.
Over time, I began to think more and more of myself. But he always alternated between two self-images of being healthy and sick.
So, earlier this year, I gave up on my earlier image, which I was a little comfortable with but didn't help.
Since my image as a healthy person has been etched in my mind, it has become much easier for me to do sports and eat healthy. It feels most natural now.
