Habits shape who we are, how we think, and how we carry out our daily activities. Here are some pointers to help you develop yourself.
1. Make a list of the three most critical issues you have to perform for the day that will have the most impact every morning.
This helps you to filter out the background noise and drive you to prioritize. My top three priorities today, for example, were to host a training, attend two executive meetings, and publish two articles. I accomplished all three.
2. Apply the 10-year test
I made a mistake at work many years ago, and my manager was furious with me. I was immediately frustrated with myself and moped around for two days. Fast forward many years, and it turns out that it was simply a little stumbling block in my life. I don’t even recall what happened because it was such a minor issue!
But you know what frustrates me? Instead of moping, I could have spent those two days creating something or assisting people in their life. So, instead of worrying when you’re faced with a difficult scenario, ask yourself, “Will this matter in 10 days?” Is it really ten months? How about ten years? It’s unlikely to happen. Don’t get caught up in the details; instead, focus on the larger picture.
3. Every day, learn something new.
It could be a list of new habits, a new language, a skill, or an insight (wink wink). Every day, push yourself to develop. For example, today I had a phone conversation with a TV show creator and learned about the entertainment industry. Consider how much better you’d be if you improved just a tiny bit every day for a year. Over time, the effect gets more pronounced. You can learn more on bedroom designs and DIY on different activities.
4. Every week, watch a thought leader on YouTube.
Many of my friends and mentors advise me to read every day in order to learn. I enjoy reading, but I find that images help me learn more effectively. That’s why I like to watch a thought leader on YouTube express their experiences and thoughts.
5. Send your emails in batches
With a thousand emails arriving in your inbox every day, it’s easy to become distracted. Instead of inspecting each one as it arrives, batch them and inspect the batch every three hours if possible. Someone will usually Gchat, Slack, Sype, SMS, or call you if it’s an emergency.
6. Start your day with a green smoothie.
It’s quick, simple, and good for you. Who wants to chew vegetables for hours at a time for breakfast? This is a fantastic way to get a lot of your daily vegetable and fruit servings. It is something I would recommend for all ages.. For work trips, I even bring a portable blender with me (true story). Freeze your fruits and veggies to extend their shelf life. Plus, it adds a great texture to your smoothie (particularly if you include bananas!).
7. Exercise first thing in the morning
It’s simple, yet it’s quite effective. Your energy levels will be significantly higher for the remainder of the day, and your health will benefit as well. Every day, I try to run 2-3 miles followed by circuit training. I’m not perfect, but when I do it, I feel like a completely different person. When it comes to good morning habits, there’s a lot to consider.
8. Make gratitude a habit
Every morning, make a list of three things you’re thankful for (or night). As a result, you’ll be significantly happier. Another approach is to write it down on post-it notes and save them in a mason jar. Take a post it note and read it whenever you’re feeling down or stuck. I like to call it the “jar of awesomeness.” Right now, one is sitting on my kitchen island.
9. Assemble a “feel good” team.
Spend time with friends and family who encourage you and motivate you to live your best life. Do you have a naysayer in your life? Spend no time with them. Get rid of the toxins in your life! Surround yourself with people who will help you shine by bringing out the best in you.
10. Have a proclivity towards experimenting
We don’t always know what the appropriate solution is. What is the most effective method for determining this? Experiment. To find out what will work, test your ideas and have a leaning toward taking action.
Conclusion
Being the best version of yourself is a gift that no one will reward you. It puts you at a greater understanding of who you are and what you can do best.
