Creating Routines that Lead to Results
Can you believe another year is almost finished? Time seems to go faster and faster each year. It can really pass you by if you’re not careful—if you’re not intentional.
I’ve been thinking a lot about living lately — about being fully, vibrantly alive, awake to the beauty, wonder, and potential of each day, and of ourselves. Again, and again, I’ve been reminded and convicted that pursuing a vibrant, abundant life is a sure act of hope. And that sharing the good stuff of life with others is a generous act that can have ripple effects that trickle beyond our wildest imagination.
I’ve also been trying to make sure I act on my thoughts about living. I don’t want to just talk the talk. I need to walk the walk, too. But how?
Below is an exercise I’ve been working through in my journal the last few days.
Surprisingly it was inspired by my relatively recent role as a “coach” or “BODi Partner” (the company is going through a transition in lingo/branding). One thing that’s really gotten me excited about this new venture is the support I’ve received around my own personal and professional development, and the company’s emphasis on Vital Behaviors.
Vital behaviors are the simple actions that, if I do them every day, will lead to positive results. It’s a simple concept, and I’m sure I’ve heard it said a million other ways before. But for some reason, hearing it in this way, at this time, and from these inspiring women has really helped me chip away at some limiting beliefs that have held me back in many areas of my life.
So, I’ve been applying this concept to other areas of my life, too. Grab a journal (or a spread sheet!) and work through these questions with me. I’d love to know if you find them helpful and clarifying.
And of course, I can’t wait to see how you shine in 2023.
Part 1: Reflect
What are the areas of my life that I’d like to see different results than last year? And what results would I like to see?
(For an example, the areas I identified were faith, family, work + business, home, lifestyle, and relationships. In lifestyle, for instance, one of the changes I want to see is more consistent quiet, reflective mornings.)
What behaviors fostered the outcomes I want (i.e., what am I already doing well that I can continue?) What are the challenges or roadblocks (real or perceived) that I experienced that prevented me achieving these outcomes this past year?
It’s really important to give yourself credit and celebrate the good things you’re already doing! The most sustainable habits are usually the ones that build off something you’re already doing. But it is also important to be honest about the not-so-great habits we have and that may need to change in order to see different results. Importantly, some of these bad habits can include limiting beliefs or negative mindsets! We often need to change our mindset before any external changes.
What are the behaviors that I’d need to do consistently to see and experience the results I want?
(Some examples: wake up by 6am every day, call one friend every week, tell my children and spouse I love them every day.)
Part 2: Plan
Narrow down: What area(s) do I need and want to prioritize this year?
Believe it or not, we can’t do everything all the time, so we need to focus in on those things that are truly the most important—not necessarily the areas that need the most work or seem the most exciting. For me, for instance, faith, family, and health are pretty much non-negotiable, because so much else hinges on them. Those will take priority, and then I have to be selective about what other area(s) I’m going to give energy to.
Commit: What are the essential behaviors I am going to commit to do? When? How? How often?
Look at your big list above and select a few (seriously just a few!) to commit to. Check your attitude…are you merely setting out to “try” or “test out” these things? Or can you be braver and bolder and adopt an attitude of commitment, perseverance, trust, and belief?
Make it visible & verbal: Find a way to keep your "vital behaviors” top of mind.
Write them in your planner, set calendar reminders, tell a close friend or spouse, put sticky notes on your mirror, in your car, on your laptop.
Part 3: Do!
Do your behaviors!! And check in often.
Don't just talk the talk. Walk the walk. One foot in front of the other. Small, consistent actions. Don't be afraid! Just do it!! And at the beginning especially, check in with your list daily. How’d you do? Recommit to the vibrant person you are!
One last note: It can be easy to feel jaded about making resolutions. It can feel like we’re just making a list of more things to do, check off, and achieve. But I want to encourage you to think instead about the type of person you want to be (and are made to be!!). This exercise is meant to help you reveal how that person (you!) would and does behave. Throughout the year, when you inevitably get sidetracked, you can return to your vital behaviors again and again.
I’d love to know—what changes would you like to see and experience in 2023?