Building Success One Habit at a Time

Could we talk about goals (and habits) for a moment? Specifically, why do they seem so hard to achieve? Could it be that we’re thinking too big or too broadly? Ambitions like “be happier” or “be more successful” can be tough to realize because they lack detail and actionable elements. You may find that even reasonable goals are challenging to achieve without the addition of sustainable and attainable — so small and reasonable you almost don't know they’re there — habits. To create the impactful changes we want in our lives I recommend developing a taste for smaller habits that bring us closer to reaching these goals. Here are some of the habit-building steps that have worked well for coaching clients - and for myself too!

It’s highly personal

There is no one-size-fits-all list of habits that will work for everyone. Our lives are bespoke, each with our own unique set of desires and responsibilities. That said, what each of us can do is reflect on what aligns most with the life we want to have, what nourishes and sustains us each day and what will leave us feeling good about ourselves and what we have accomplished.

Make it micro

Look at your goals and determine what habits can help you get closer to them. Areas to explore might include how you treat your body (food, exercise, sleep, mental wellness) and how you spend your time (work, leisure, causes, family/friends) to determine what fuels you and what drains you. From there, narrow in on making one small change at a time to tackle the things that drain your energy and amplify those that fuel you.

Be experimental

Building new habits shouldn’t be viewed as a one time event. It’s a process of trial, some error — and also some wins. A smart strategy? Start with one bite-size new habit, such as going to bed at 10pm every night, and test it out over a reasonable period of time to see whether it makes a positive impact for you. If it isn’t working, don’t abandon it right away. Instead, try tweaking the habit to see if there’s a better variation of it that works for you (ie. 10:30pm each day or later bedtimes on weekends).

Persist + find consistency

Some new habits don’t pay off immediately and that lack of instant gratification can be demotivating. Take moments of self reflection to check in on your feelings. What about the process is frustrating you? Give yourself permission to have some compassion for the frustrations that are experienced when we are in the process of change. Whenever possible, remind yourself of your why — the big picture and how this new habit fits into it. This can help you stay focused and stick with it while you wait for the delayed gratification to appear.

Reach out for support

Creating consistent, long term changes that improve your career and your life doesn’t have to be a solo endeavour. If you’re struggling to hone in on the habits that will help you achieve your goals, consider collaborating with a coach (Hi!) to build the framework with you and help you adjust it as needed.