5 ways to build a new habit

Life is not a vending machine; you can’t put a coin in and voila everything will work out. But anything you invest your time and resources in – from money to connections to efforts – takes a while to show promise and come to life. So, establish your own expectations. Build what I call “Daily Small Habits” where these habits will develop the right process for shaping and achieving your big dream.

Here are some tips to start you off:

One Habit per day – it is easier said than done. I know it is human nature, we are wired to do more than what we should do, and I am not only talking about pushing yourself to grow, but there is a difference between consistency in pushing and a momentary pushing. My preference is long term habits because they build the foundation for a better life. So, choose one small habit – as small as reading a paragraph a day or doing 5 pull-ups a day - and focus on performing and integrating it into your day.

Schedule it in your day – a tip to make your habit stick is to allocate a time for it to be practiced in the day daily. This goes to say to think wisely with when to perform, a time where it isn’t busy as this will most probably be the first thing you skip when the day jams - so early mornings or late at night are best.

Make it easy to perform – habits in the early stage should be super easy meaning that it should not make you feel tiresome when performing it. So, if you want to do 5 pull-ups, you should not be breaking a sweat. The objective is not to build muscles in the early days but to wire your brain and body to accept a new habit. Commit to the habit for at least 21-30 days, and as the habit is building up, add the intensity.

Keep Track of your Progress – write down what you have accomplished at the end of the day. Believe me seeing your daily progress written allows your brain to process “mentally achievement” and be more grateful for your development. A PLUS - looking back at them is always the BEST feeling; gets you inspired.

Pat yourself on the back – Believe me when I say that you are doing more than 90% of the people in your field, but having the chance to reflect on your day and saying this is one step forward towards my goal.

To develop and grow, the key is baby steps to exercise your muscle memory and brain to adapt to the change. Jumping to the goal will not get you to the place you want to be in mentally and physically. Starting small will lead to great results.

Stay Positive

Stay Humble

Keep Moving Forward