Are you trying to create a new habit? — Momentum over motivation

Sometimes self-care can be about feeling in control of our daily habits but finding the will power to change those habits can be difficult.

Often we may have the motivation to create new habits but struggle to achieve them. Or we might just achieve them for a short period of time. Have you ever wondered why that is?

My business, Slow Moon is still very new. I know that to build it up I need to work hard and create some very solid and regular work habits. I know what I want to achieve for the business and why. But that motivation is not enough on its own. One element I want to grow in my business is the number of stockists I have. I have now made it a habit to spend 30 to 60 mins every working morning to finding and contacting new and existing stockists. How have I done this? How did I create that habit?

1. Build upon existing habits. I tagged this action onto an action I always do. For me this time is always spent straight after I eat breakfast.

2. Clear reasons and incentives. I have a list of my stockists on my wall in front of my desk. I also have my reason for wanting to grow my business written in front of me and what am I going to do with the extra revenue generated? These act as a cue for me.

3. Make it easy. I use a timer and never go over the time I set for that task. This way I don’t over work and get bored.

4. Reward. I reward myself immediately afterwards. I choose to take a break and stretch my legs.

5. Make it satisfying. When I do gain an order from a new or existing stockist I take the time to celebrate it and acknowledge my hard work. I might go and treat myself to something a little more special for lunch or buy myself something new.

These are disciplines I have learnt over the years from people like Dr. Rangan Chatterjee and James Clear. How does this help my wellbeing? I genuinely feel good after I have achieved my task. It’s satisfying because I know it’s contributing towards one of my ideals.

I really think that you can build new habits by using these 5 steps to help you focus. Give it a go. I’d love to hear about your progress.

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