Resilience is Key in Developing Better Systems and Habits
Scott Miker
When embarking on a journey to change the systems and habits in our lives, one key element stands out: consistency. It's not enough to make a change once and hope for immediate results; we must commit to ongoing effort.
The systems and habits approach to improvement focuses on gradually altering our recurring thoughts and actions over time, rather than expecting sudden transformation. This means that the amount of effort and motivation needed is often less than we initially assume. Instead of relying solely on willpower to achieve something quickly, the key is to consistently take the right steps over an extended period.
Developing new habits can be a lengthy process, with some taking weeks, months, or even years to become ingrained. The key to success lies in perseverance. It's not about constantly feeling motivated or exerting enormous effort; it's about staying the course.
To succeed in this approach, one must be resilient and persistent. This doesn't mean constantly struggling or pushing oneself to the limit. It means learning how to keep going, even when the going gets tough. For example, establishing a habit of exercising regularly may initially feel challenging, but over time, it can become a natural part of your routine.
Starting small is crucial. Instead of setting lofty goals, begin with manageable steps. For instance, rather than committing to a two-hour workout every morning, start with a 10-minute workout. Similarly, if you want to reduce your carb intake, begin by gradually reducing the amount of carbohydrates in your meals.
It's important to accept that setbacks will happen. There will be days when things don't go as planned, but it's essential to keep going. By starting small and gradually increasing the intensity, you'll be more likely to stick with the new behavior in the long run.
In summary, resilience and persistence are essential for success in developing better systems and habits. By starting small, staying committed, and gradually increasing your efforts, you can make lasting changes in your life.