If you’re like most people, establishing a routine can be challenging, and sticking to it even harder. Additionally, I can assure you that overcoming the difficulties of sticking to a routine is something you’ll want to address in the simplest way possible. We are inherently driven to advance and self-improve, yet many of us remain comfortable in familiar routines, even if they limit our growth.
You can achieve your goals and create meaningful change by establishing routines that are easy to maintain. I’m a work in progress, but over the years, I’ve studied various methods and received guidance from experts who excel at reaching their goals through effective routines. There are many ways to create and implement a new routine, but today, I’ll share five techniques that will set you up for success in achieving your goals.
1. Start Small
Robert Collier once said, “Success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day in and day out.” Breaking down your goal into manageable steps can make it feel less overwhelming. For example, I had a goal to drink more water daily, it was easier for me to start with one cup per day instead of aiming for the recommended amount right away. Complex tasks that require significant effort can seem unattainable, but incremental changes are less disruptive and easier for your brain to adapt to. So, focusing on one aspect of your goal at a time reduces the overall effort required, making progress more achievable.
2. Track Your Progress
I reached a turning point where I knew I needed to improve my life, so I took charge and transformed my situation. I committed to learning something new daily and set up a weekly schedule to keep me on track. As I reviewed my achievements from the previous week while planning the next, I felt pride in my accomplishments. Observing your progress can significantly boost your confidence and motivate you to continue. Tracking my actions held me accountable and kept me committed to my routine. As I consistently met my weekly goals, I began to feel a true sense of purpose. Initially, I sometimes overestimated what I could achieve in a day, but tracking helped me pinpoint areas for improvement and adjust my routine as needed.
3. Habit Stacking
Struggling to muster the strength to make a new task a routine? Habit stacking could be the answer you’re looking for. It’s a technique that involves linking a new habit to an existing routine. It’s like adding a new step to a process you already do automatically. Connecting new habits to your existing routines can make them feel more natural and less like an additional chore. Your current routine will naturally prompt you to complete the new task. For instance, I love listening to an audiobook on a new topic while driving to work or exercising. This allows me to maximize my time, and I now associate driving with audio books. So by habit stacking, an established routine can effectively reinforce and support your new habits.
4. Build a Support System
A strong support system is an invaluable asset, offering encouragement, accountability, and motivation when needed. Research by Harandi et al. (2017) highlights a significant link between social support and mental health. A solid support system can allow you to have someone who provides advice, shares similar experiences, and offers assistance during tough times. Achieving your goals and making meaningful changes is much easier with trusted individuals cheering you on from the sidelines. Your support system can remind you of your commitments, celebrate your progress, and help you stay focused on your routine.
5. Reward System
Sometimes, we are our own harshest critics, quickly recognizing the good in others while overlooking it in ourselves. Rewarding yourself is a powerful way to acknowledge your achievements and provide immediate gratification. Many successful individuals focus on rewards to minimize distractions and maintain motivation. Keeping your eyes on the prize can make overcoming challenges more worthwhile. You create incentives that make the journey more enjoyable and motivating by linking your routine to rewards.
Now It's Time to Establish a New Routine
Unsuccessful attempts at sticking to a new routine happens. That’s why using powerful tools such as the five techniques listed in this article to automate your behaviors increases your chances of succeeding. I’ve experienced and witnessed in others how the importance of incorporating a daily routine increases self-improvement. If you can learn that a setback is only a lesson to learn from, you’ll continue to thrive and improve the quality of your life
There are no quick fixes for establishing and sticking to a routine—it requires time, patience, and dedication. If there’s something you’ve always wanted to achieve, there’s no better time to start implementing a routine than right now. Your future self will be thankful you did.
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