How To Be Consistently Consistent?

Ahh, the power of being consistent. Profound yet underrated. It is heralded as the key to achieving excellence in almost any aspect of our being: physical, emotional, intellectual, relational, spiritual. Yet it's the first thing that gets thrown out the window when the going gets tough.

We have so many positive intentions and thoughts, and we often know exactly what we "should" do to kick some serious ass and become world-class.

So why is it the one thing we humans can struggle with the most - especially when we're trying to get better at well, anything?

While I am a work in progress, I have been able to master consistency in a few key areas and, I got to admit, it's made all the difference. That's why I'm excited to tackle this subject and help you turn your potential into reality.

If you want to make any significant change in your life (and I bet you do!) here are five key principles that will help you be more consistently consistent.

1. Visualize The End Result

Whatever change you are inspired to make, it's important to first think about how you want to feel. I get it, if only you'd knew, right? To make this part a little easier on you - ask yourself - How do I feel that I no longer want to feel? Write down a list of thoughts and feelings that are currently holding you in their grip. Now that these buzz killers are out in the open, invite what you desire. Imagine, visualize, fantasize what you'd love to have instead in your life. Ask yourself - How do I want to feel? (f.ex. I want to feel Strong. Excited. Energized. Unlimited. Bold. Radiant. Worthy. Healthy...)

2. Flip The Script.

Drop the I can't's that exist in your world right now. I am referring to the statements of "I want to wake up earlier, but I'm not a morning person", "I want to feel stronger but I don't have time to work out, etc." Sounds familiar? These are simply false beliefs that prevent us from pursuing our goals and desires. Some of the most impactful limiting beliefs we hold are about ourselves. For example, for many years, I falsely believed I lacked creativity until the moment I dared to question myself "What if I'm wrong?" Challenge yourself to imagine a world where your assumption is incorrect. What would that look like? What would it take? Usually, it's far less than you think.

3. Declare Your Intentions

There is a distinct difference between wishing for something and declaring your commitment to do everything that is needed to achieve outstanding results. A desire is a wish, a hope, a want, or a consideration that can be easily forgotten or replaced. An intention however is a declaration, a strong signal around a picture of a future state that you are aiming for. Your intention is the decision to do what it takes to achieve an outcome despite what happens along the way. Are you wishing for some positive outcome or are you intending to do whatever it takes to achieve success?

4. Plan Your Work. Work Your Plan.

Two things are accomplished by doing this. Not only are you going in the direction you want to go but a plan will keep you on track and will let you know if you drift from your desired direction.

Goals can be overwhelming. A big goal can paralyze some people into inaction. Planning allows you to break down your goals into manageable chunks. Accomplishing one small manageable chunk after another keeps you moving forward. Eventually, you’ll reach your goal. That’s exactly how I approach my work and life. I first decide what I want to achieve, and then I develop a plan for getting there.

5. Don't Let Self-Doubt Creep in

Any negative feeling or thought that could intrude on you being consistent is temporary. It is an illusion. In the moment it feels very powerful, but in an hour, 10 minutes, or tomorrow you could feel very different. Don’t let temporary illusions of stress, anxieties, worry, or insecurity derail you from your plan. In moments like these, the quickest way to break the bonds of doubt is by taking immediate decisive action. Oftentimes that's all it takes: drafting that first email, asking for help on a new project, or stepping inside that gym. Remind yourself how you will feel after your after you have conquered the moment (see principle 1). It will be worth it.

Write it down now: I will not dwell on self-doubt.

When all else fails and the above tips do not work, then use the foolproof guide below to help you stay consistent.

If you are “not feeling like it”…do it anyway.

If you are sad…do it anyway.

If you are busy…do it anyway.

If you are tired…do it anyway.

If you are feeling good…do it anyway.

If you are “too stressed”…do it anyway.

If you are unmotivated…do it anyway.

If you are on vacation…do it anyway.

If you are unsure…do it anyway.

If you find yourself making excuses…do it anyway.

No matter what trust that you can and will stay consistent. You are an amazing person with valuable gifts to offer the world, master the gift of giving the best to yourself, and everything else falls into place.