Is there something that you've wanted to accomplish for a while now, but you just never get around to it? There's always a good reason why you can't get it done, right? If you want to make it happen, I've got a sure-fire formula to succeed and it's not that difficult.
The solution is to create a weekly routine that builds in non-negotiable time for working on your goal.
It is important to only tackle one new goal at a time unless the goal is very small. After 30 days if you want to add something else to your routine that relates to a second goal, you can do that, but bear in mind that you may need to eliminate something else less essential (say TV watching) from your day in order to fit in second goal.
Routines are all about planning with REALISTIC time frames. Realistic is so important. It means that you build in buffer time for your tasks and events and that you also build in transition time between tasks/events.
How to Build a Weekly Routine for Installing a Habit
1. Download this Weekly Routine template from Mediafire. The file has both a blank template and an example sheet.
- Lose weight
- Exercise & get healthy
- Write a Book/Essay/Blog
- Increase Performance at work to earn a promotion
- Plan and Start a Business
- Start a Hobby such as oil painting
- Make more business networking connections
- Meet new friends
4. Block in the time you'll work on your new goal or habit in the Weekly Routine template.
5. Fill in the rest of how you spend your time. Be sure to be realistic with your time frames including buffer time and transition time. Use background color and font color to make it easier to see different sections of time. See the example in the
Weekly Routine excel document.
6. Print and Post. Print out a few copies. If you want you can put it inside a sheet protector, but it's not necessary. Post this in the main places you need reminders: your bedside table, your desk, the kitchen, your car, and maybe you're bathroom!
7. Preparation for Day 1. Do everything in your power to be prepared for success on day one. Prepare lunch, breakfast, your materials you need to bring with you in the morning, clothes, etc. the night before and then be sure to go to bed on time. This is so important. You'll need to be well rested to implement your new routine. Eliminate anything that might trip you up such as TV, web browsing, or even reading. Go to bed on time and get great rest. Tomorrow is going to be your big success day!
8. Day 1. Wake and affirm to yourself that you will be successful today. Be positive and follow your plan no matter what. Block out any negative voices in your head (or in your ears). Make this day a success and celebrate it at the end of the day. This first day will be the cornerstone upon which you will build your overall success!
9. Repeat steps 6 & 7 until your routine is a habit. Relish your success. If you have an off day, don't fret. Just resolve to start anew tomorrow with another cornerstone success day. Remember this: How do you eat an elephant? Answer: One bite at a time. Day by day. Little by little you will get there! You can do it!
10. Celebrate. Set shorter term milestones along your journey that you can strive for and celebrate them as you reach them!
Here's to your success!
Please share with the DLM community what goal you plan to install using this method. We'd love to cheer you on!
Written for Dumb Little Man by K. Stone, author of Life Learning Today, a blog about daily life improvements. Popular articles are So You Want to Be a Writer and Your Most Productive Week Ever!
