I still struggle with routines but getting to a point where I can share a few tips on creating one is WILD! You probably know by now that setting goals is all fun and games until it’s time to do the work consistently over a period of time also actually enjoy the process. Guilty much?
Well, it’s one thing to get out of your comfort zone, limit distractions and multitask but I think it’s a whole other flex to have a life you actually (in my opinion).I used to get bored by routines until I understood their value.
It’s impossible to build anything without a routine — PERIOD. I don’t care how good your intentions are or how much of a visionary you truly are. If you can’t be consistent you can’t build anything substantial. Definitely read on for some tips.
Let’s get to it:
- Consider your mindset around goal setting
Are you the type of person that only sets goals on your birthday or at the start of every year? Keyword — ONLY. If so, this is your sign to consider how difficult it is to change. It takes failure and consistent effort to try again and grow until you can get things somewhat right (the ghetto – trust me I know).
Try giving yourself grace rather than subscribing to the ‘new year, new me’ concept, failing miserably two months later, and resorting to trying again the next year. Bad habits are hard to drop and that’s just the reality. Don’t get me wrong though — trust me to set some new goals every year or whenever my birthday comes around.
I just think that you should be able to work on goals and make changes as you go. This way you can get better faster, optimize your mental resources, begin achieving some goals, hopefully setting new ones to scare you until it’s nothing — and the level up process continues (easier said than done).
2. Determine how effective you actually are when setting new goals
How you set your goals is EVERYTHING. The level of clarity you need regarding where you are now, where you need to be in any particular area and everything in between (particularly your step one) has got to be unmatched.
I recommend auditing yourself in the aspects you want to change so you can clearly see what you’ve been doing up until this point, decide what’s not going to fly then determine the way moving forward. It’s hard to be on top of everything but I can tell you for a fact that you’re going to be on top of the things that matter to you NOW.
Even if you don’t follow through with anything you’ll know exactly where you are, perhaps for the first time, and that’s a step. If you can get to doubling down on even just one thing that’s working, there’s your starting point right there.
3. Create new routines that facilitate your goals
Most people are neither here nor there when it comes to routines. I’ve been most people — having routines just to feel like I have them even when I could care less. If you almost hate routines by this point I’m talking to you.
The way to hack this is to think of your routines as a system. On one hand there’s your goals then on the other hand your routines. Cues and treats brings these moving parts together. Always have a reminder for any new behavior you’re trying to incorporate into your routine then reward yourself afterwards — whatever that means to you.
Living my life on my terms is an all-time goal for me. I’ve found that easing into my mornings, for instance, does the trick for me. I don’t like to think about everything at the same time so giving myself that time in the morning usually sets me up for the day. I get the most out of myself each day when I do this so I made it a crucial part of my routine.
4. Aim for prioritization not perfection
Having a routine you like might look like getting it right on some days and not so much on others. You deserve to reward yourself for putting in the work when you do get it right and give yourself grace when you don’t. Your routine eventually becomes your way of life. You just have to stick with it long enough.
Prioritization requires that you disrupt your normal routine at times because you need to focus on first things first for a period of time. There’s a course I’m finishing up that’s got my attention these next couple of days so I’m not going to be pressed about my usual routine for now,
This is the second time I’ve applied for this course which is why I’m keen. I’m happy to get this out the way then go back to my usual routine. Perhaps prioritization is something to consider for as long as you don’t make it a habit. Try your best to schedule in time for all your priorities so you’re at par with everything.
5. Balance is key
If you’re like me and you work from home and even if not, your best bet is to ensure that your routine helps you navigate different areas of your life. Depending on what you do, the season you’re in, or what’s going on with you this may or may not sound practical but hear me out.
I remember not having much of a social life when I started building the consultancy. I had a lot of pressure at the time because I was putting all all these different hats myself to really get things going. Did I need to do the work? Yes.
Could I have handled that period better? Absolutely because despite the wins what ended up happening is that I completely burned out at the very end of that year. If you don’t take anything from this blog, please take the balance. I hope this helps 🙂 Happy new year! (Whichever year you’re reading this).
This is a masterpiece….very insightful
Thanks Matthew! Happy to be of help 🙂