Unlocking the Power of Consistency: A Path to Success
Written on
Consistency is Key to a Rewarding Life
To maintain consistency is to engage in diligent work, but it's crucial to intersperse that with short breaks.
Who embodies consistency?
"Tomorrow's tasks should be addressed today. Today's tasks need to be tackled immediately."
If you let a moment pass, how will the work ever get done?
There’s no time like the present. — Translated from Kabir.
You must strive to make today remarkable to reap lifelong rewards. You possess greatness, and maintaining daily effort is essential for success.
Pacing yourself daily is far more effective than attempting to accomplish everything in one exhausting session. That approach often leads to unfinished tasks and endless postponements.
> Two children were the best of friends. One, quick and sprightly, often referenced the hare but lacked consistency in his races. He would doze off, intending to rush after the slow tortoise. Who triumphed? The steady and persistent tortoise.
Through my experiences, I've learned that consistency may appear slow, yet life invariably rewards it.
Allow me to share my personal journey with consistency:
Years ago, while raising three young children and teaching at a college, I relied solely on a typewriter. I was fortunate enough to own an electric one, but my commuting involved public transport.
I was diligent in my work but eventually felt drained. Minor irritations seemed to trigger sharp reactions from me. It dawned on me that something was amiss.
A friend advised me to incorporate breaks into my routine, which could significantly help.
Upon reflecting, I realized that while I set modest goals by writing regularly, I had neglected to treat myself to coffee breaks or social outings.
I discovered the root of my dissatisfaction: it wasn't my consistency, but rather the absence of variety and necessary downtime from my daily grind.
Pleasure is integral to consistency, sustainability, and happiness.
I experimented with taking 20-minute walks, enjoying weekends out, and engaging socially. I began to blend enjoyment with my work.
The transformation was remarkable. Complaints faded, happiness surged, and my productivity surpassed many around me. Over time, I maintained my enthusiasm and positive outlook.
How can one sustain consistency in life?
#1. Ensure Consistency is Sustainable
I came across Winston's article titled "How I Rose From Nobody to Somebody in 9 Months," where he emphasized that consistency must be sustainable. He had experienced burnout from excessive consistency.
> Remember: consistency should be sustainable. Goals must be set so that they are achievable.
Plan your goals thoughtfully, tackling them incrementally. Sustainability means only taking on what you can manage without draining your energy. A consistent individual sets realistic expectations, working steadily while keeping a low profile and focusing on their objectives. They take breaks and segment their work.
#2. Embrace Short Breaks
Always incorporate breaks into your work routine. No one can work continuously without reaching their limit. This is why an official 8-hour workday includes breaks.
I recommend making each day extraordinary. Take frequent short breaks or at least weekly, choosing to relax with friends or family over coffee, grocery shopping, or enjoying a scenic drive—whatever brings you joy.
#3. Find Joy in Your Work
Your work should bring you pleasure. If you find that what you do doesn’t align with your happiness or vision, it may be best to move on rather than endure toxic stress. Cultivate passion for your work, and the rewards will follow.
Key Takeaways
- The secret is to establish attainable goals. Don’t aim for a mountain if you’ve never hiked a hill; start small and gradually push yourself upward. A steady, measured approach leads to quicker progress.
> “Consistency of performance is essential. You don’t have to be exceptional every week, but at a minimum, you need to perform at a level that allows you to score points even on a bad day.” — Sean Dyche
- Avoid overexertion. Take brief breaks, step away from your workspace, and make time for social activities. Set a goal to enjoy nature with a walk or visit a garden, either alone or with friends. Relaxation is the foundation of consistency.
- Working joyfully keeps you on a fulfilling journey. Approach your tasks with passion and shed the tension or seek better opportunities. Each day can reflect positivity and happiness, enriching your life and preparing you for the rewards of success.
Consistency isn't merely hard work; it's intelligent work. It simply means engaging daily while also incorporating relaxation and enjoyment to reach your goals.
So, relish your work, enjoy each moment, and watch the rewards unfold. Make every day remarkable and fulfilling through both effort and enjoyment.
> “Successful individuals aren’t just motivated; they possess a consistency in their motivation.” — Arsene Wenger
Editor’s Recommendations This Week
Here are a few articles from this week’s Coffee Times selections:
Kasturi Patra — 8 Deliciously Fun and Unusual Tips to Skyrocket Your Writing Skills
To become a better writer, Kasturi encourages reading for pleasure, immersing yourself in fiction, and spending time in nature. Engaging in playful activities can enhance your consistency.
Mulan — Have You Ever Seen When Encountering An Earthquake No One Runs Away?
Mulan shares her experience during an earthquake in Japan, where the locals remain calm and composed. Her stories are captivating.
Lynsey Wall — Don’t Allow Anxiety or Worry of Judgment Get in Your Way
Lynsey recounts her struggle with self-doubt that kept her from the gym, encouraging others not to hinder their progress due to fear.
Jason Edmunds — 5 Positive Effects Of Unemployment On My Life
Reflecting on his period of unemployment, Jason discusses the challenges he faced and how self-reflection, nature walks, and cooking boosted his confidence.
Leonard Tillerman — Sometimes Life Hands You Lemons
Wishing Leonard a swift recovery from Covid, he shares an inspiring message: “Never let life keep you down. Rise up and show life you’re not an easy target!”
Farewell for now! Keep your consistency strong while ensuring you take time to relax and enjoy life!
© Dr. Preeti Singh, 2022.
Join Medium through my referral link: ‘Join Medium to Become A Member’