Building a Consistent Routine in your 20s: Start Slow and Stay Flexible By Ankur Warikoo
Ankur Warikoo
Introduction:
Are you struggling to stick to a routine? Setting unrealistic goals can often lead to failure. Instead, try starting slow and gradually building a routine that works for you. In this blog post, we will explore the key strategies to create a consistent routine and achieve your goals. From the two-minute rule to temptation bundling and habit stacking, we will uncover effective techniques to overcome inertia and stay motivated. So let’s dive in and discover how to build a routine that brings happiness and success.
Start Slow and Build Gradually
Creating a routine takes time and patience. It’s important to gradually adjust your wake-up time and other daily activities to build consistency. Don’t overwhelm yourself by trying to implement a complete routine overnight. Instead, start with small changes and incrementally increase the intensity as you get comfortable.
Measuring Progress is Crucial
To stay motivated, it’s important to measure your progress. Visualize your progress using a calendar and mark each day with a cross when you stick to your routine. Seeing your achievements visually can be a great source of motivation and keep you on track.
Overcoming Inertia with the Two-Minute Rule
The two-minute rule is a powerful technique for getting started on tasks. It suggests doing the desired activity for just two minutes initially to overcome the inertia of starting. Once you start, you’ll often find the motivation to continue beyond the two minutes.
Effective Techniques: Temptation Bundling and Habit Stacking
Implementing temptation bundling and habit stacking can make routine building more effective. With temptation bundling, combine tasks that you enjoy with those that need to be done as part of your routine. For example, listen to your favorite podcast while doing household chores. Habit stacking refers to adding a new habit immediately after an existing one. For instance, meditate for five minutes right after brushing your teeth in the morning.
Flexibility and Adaptability
Creating a routine at a weekly level, rather than daily, allows for more flexibility. Repeat activities at different intervals, such as daily, weekly, or monthly, to avoid monotony. Additionally, schedule distraction time during the day to give your brain a chance to wander off. This will make it easier to stick to your routine, as you have dedicated time for enjoyable activities.
Building in Motivation
Reward yourself and build in motivation to make your routine more enjoyable. Schedule distractions as a reward for completing tasks. By giving your brain incentives, you’ll find it easier to adopt and maintain a new routine. Keeping your brain happy and entertained will also improve focus and productivity.
Building in Public and Pre-commitment
Building in public adds accountability and external pressure to stick to your habits. Share your goals with others and make your progress visible. Making a pre-commitment, whether through time or money, increases the likelihood of following through with your habits. For example, sign up for a fitness class and pay in advance.
Stay Flexible and Bounce Back
Even with the best intentions, routines can sometimes get disrupted. Instead of feeling guilty or embarrassed, stay flexible and bounce back. Treat each day as a fresh start and don’t scold yourself for minor setbacks. With a flexible mindset, it becomes easier to stick to your routine and achieve your goals.
Visualize Success and Keep Promises
Visualize the successful outcome of following your routine. Let it serve as a reminder of why you started and what you can achieve. Creating a routine is more than just a series of tasks; it’s about keeping promises to yourself and others. By sticking to your routine, you’ll boost self-belief and pave the way for achieving your goals.
You won’t get out of laziness for something you don’t want to do.
By Ankur Warikoo
Conclusion:
In conclusion, building a routine is a gradual process that requires patience and flexibility. Start slow, measure your progress, and implement effective techniques like the two-minute rule, temptation bundling, and habit stacking. Stay motivated by rewarding yourself and building in motivation. Build accountability by going public with your goals and making pre-commitments. And most importantly, stay flexible and bounce back from disruptions. By following these steps and visualizing your success, you can create a routine that brings happiness and helps you achieve your goals.
