The foundation for success comes from the habits we practise everyday. Whether we realise it or not. Of course it is important when we desire progress towards achieving our personal goals, we become aware of the little habits that are pushing us towards our goals or pulling us further away.
Everything we do can have a long term effect, even when it is not always obvious. Some of our small habits could actually be quite destructive towards our goal rather than being beneficial or constructive. So, the trick to success really is focus; looking at the bigger picture, especially when making the smaller decisions.
You should always try to grow and develop mentally and physically. Focusing on your goals and focusing on bringing yourself success. I know sometimes it can seem like a lot to create a new habit, but changing your mindset and focusing on creating smaller steps, which all add up to a bigger picture, will help you progress further than just trying to jump in the deep end.
It is said there are certain good habits that if developed will contribute positively to your personal development, which can also help with your professional development too. I know, especially around this time of year, people tend to not feel as productive or driven, so, let me share with you 7 of my top habits for you to consider. These 7 habits helped me to increase my productivity.
#1. Create a plan
I have previously written about why you should have written goals. However, goals are of no value if you do not have a plan of action in how you are going to achieve them. Whether your goal is to start a successful company, lose weight or manage money better, a well thought-out plan can provide you with the steps you can take each day to meet your goals and also create new habits in the process.
Writing down your plan and maybe a backup plan is almost like giving yourself a map to get you to where you want to be. Try to include as much detail as you can in the process of reaching your goal, as looking back will help you to achieve your goal, even if you have to take a different route here and there .
#2. Read!
Find time for reading. Reading helps increase your store of knowledge and helps to improve your vocabulary and grammar. Reading also provides mental stimulation which can help you prevent the early onset of Alzheimer’s and dementia. Reading also provides you with an easy access to so much knowledge, information and wisdom. All from people that have achieved great things in their lifetime and make this knowledge available to all.
#3. Take time to relax
It’s so easy to get caught up in the daily grind of work and all the things we do to keep our lives running that we often forget to reward ourselves occasionally. How about getting a massage, visiting the museum or treating yourself to a vacation?
Taking time away to relax and recharge is a good thing. It contributes to your physical and emotional well-being, and helps you to regain focus and prevent that dreaded burnout.
#4. Give yourself space to focus
Just like you take time out to relax, you should give yourself the space you need to help refocus and just think. Thinking time is the time out you take out of your day for working on the steps to make your dream a reality. It also gives you the opportunity to assess where you are currently on your path and what you should do if you think you need to make a few changes in order to reach each milestone you have set yourself.
#5. Step out of your comfort zone
You know the saying “your best life lies outside of your comfort zone“.
How can we learn or improve if we are not willing to try new things that will expand your mind and give you a strength that can only be obtained by stepping out into a new territory. You will also realise that you are braver and much stronger than you thought you ever were. This will also help to increase your self-esteem and confidence.
When you step out and try something new, you change, you evolve and become a new person, so to speak. You grow and you acquire new skills which you can then use in your personal life and your career.
#6. Learn to look at the glass as half full
There have been many studies that show people actually benefit from keeping a gratitude journal. Having a positive attitude can help you to see things differently. Problems are no longer hindrances but challenges to overcome and lessons to learn. You suddenly become more aware of new possibilities around you. A positive attitude will help you approach each challenge with a ‘can do’ spirit, which can help you to focus better. It takes a conscious effort, especially if you are not naturally optimistic, but that doesn’t mean you can’t do it. Being able to recognise your negative thoughts and come up with a counter-argument for the negativity will do you good. It helps you create and improve your perspective and how you look at different situations.
#7. Sleep!
This is one habit which many people struggle with, yet it has a way of eluding most. Getting enough sleep is under-rated but it is quite important for success. Enough sleep will help you manage stress better and give you the mental clarity you need to focus on your to do list.
More sleep does not always equal a more restful experience, it is suggested 8 hours is best, but the quality of those hours is also something we need to take into consideration. This may mean you need to look at getting a new mattress, or maybe try a new sleeping position where you do not have excess strain on your joints.
These are, what I consider to be habits, that will contribute to your success. Some of it may work for you and some of it may not, but you certainly owe it to yourself to try developing good habits that will help you on your journey to success.
Do you have any good habits that have had a positive impact on your life? Why not share it with us by leaving a comment below to help others on their journey.