Derived from: The Power of Habits, Charles Duhigg
‘We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit’ – Aristotle
Did you know around 40% of our decisions are not decisions at all?
They are basically a habit. A habit that we can control… Let me explain what I mean…
The author of ‘The Power of Habits’, Charles Duhigg, explains a habit as a reaction where we don’t actively think about the decision, we just respond automatically.
As activity becomes more automatic, more routine, a habit is formed. That said, they are not our destiny.
The clue to creating winning habits lies in the simple formula: cue, routine and reward. When we experiment with these we alter our behaviours and ultimately our results.
Let me explain how it works: There is often a ‘cue’ or ‘trigger’ that sets off a ‘routine’, an automated response conducted literally without thinking, that provides a specific ‘result’. As an example: the cue could be boredom or procrastination or even low blood sugar levels (cue) that trigger you to head to the fridge/pantry for some food (routine), that once consumed provides the feeling of ‘gratified delay’ (reward).
Think about what ‘routines’ you have in your day.
Is it something you want to change?
If so, the first step is to acknowledge and work out what triggers the ‘action’ you want to change and the reward provided. Notice the pattern – the when, where and with whom it occurs. What is the reward? The physical sensation linked to the cue?
Only armed with this ‘truth’ can you set yourself up to create winning habits.
The trick now is set yourself up for success by following the 3 Rules of Winning Habits.
- Plan ahead. Now armed with the knowledge of what the ‘triggers’ are that set off your actions (like heading to the pantry), you can set yourself a new course of action. Next time you consciously say to yourself ‘I’m hungry’, ask yourself ‘am I really?’. You clearly need a ‘fresh start’ and no better time to take a quick 20 min jog around the block.
- Total belief in yourself. You need to believe you can do this. That you can change your habit. This is the most powerful tool you have.
- Support Network. Immerse yourself in a group that already possess the desired habits you wish to achieve. They will spur you on in your moments of doubt. Why do you think support groups such as Weight Watchers are popular?
It is proven that if are you are held accountable then you are more likely to succeed.
The reverse is also true, if you continue to be surrounded by people who do not support your goals it is more likely you will not succeed.
Who you hang out with makes more of a impact on us than you realise!
What’s next?
- Join our Kick-Ass Tradies Facebook Group, for access to trade business specific conversations, tips and resources, plus a like-minded community of tradies.
- Book a 15-minute Game Plan Call with Andy, owner of Dr. DRiP plumbing and co-founder of Lifestyle Tradie, to clarify your priorities and get clear action steps.
