The Secret Behind Consistent Success

Posted on January 03, 2016 by Janaki Bakshi, One of Thousands of Leadership Coaches on Noomii.

The Secret Behind Consistent Success, Life Balance & Peace-of-Mind

We all know at least one of them.  These colleagues seem to have it all.  They are at the top of their game professionally, making a great living. They always seem to be in a good mood. They have energy, and look healthy and fit.  They talk about their families with a smile on their face, and always seem to have time for “date nights” and quality time with their children.  And, no matter the challenge before them, their attitude is always optimistic.  Are they super-human?  Or, is there something these unique people have in common?  Ever wonder what if there is a magic ingredient that fuels success, life balance and peace-of-mind?

After coaching successful professionals, business owners, salespeople and executives over the past 8 years, I’ve noticed something about the ones who are “thriving with balance” compared with those who struggle with stress, sanity and success.

The ones who seem to have it all make “Daily Success Habits” a priority, while the others are inconsistent or have no defined practices at all.
It’s that simple.

When I say “Daily Success Habits” or “Daily Rituals,” I’m talking about specific, concrete actions taken each day to support one’s well-being, energy level and mental focus.

While every professional customizes their practices to meet individual preferences and needs, there are many similarities among those who share that extra zest.  Some of the most popular daily habits include some combination of exercise, stretching, solid nutrition, meditation, reading, gratitude, being fully present with loved ones, conscious breathing and taking time for focus on their top goals.

Each list of “daily rituals” varies.  Some have just a few core “daily rituals,” while others may aim for as many as 10, 15 or 20.  That translates to 20 – 90 minutes of time dedicated to themselves each day.

How do busy professionals have time for so many seemingly non-revenue generating “to-do’s” each day?

At first, it may seem impossible to squeeze anything more into your already “busting-at-the-seams” schedule.
Yet, clients report that the time invested in their “daily practices” pays dividends in the form of energy, greater peace-of-mind and their ability to focus. A busy sales professional says, “It makes the day feel like there are more productive hours in it when I do those 45 minutes in the morning.  And days I skip, I simply don’t have the same sense of energy.”

That’s what keeps the busiest and most successful clients committed to their “Daily Success Habits.”  They feel a positive difference each day, and momentum builds week to week.  One missed day offers such a sharp contrast, immediately inspiring them back on track.

Other professionals like to track their success habits visually with a spreadsheet or calendar, giving themselves a checkmark or gold star on each day the “practice” is completed.  While it may sound juvenile, it’s surprisingly effective! A couple blank spaces can do wonders in motivating oneself back into action.  And who doesn’t love acknowledgments?

Starting Your Own “Daily Success Habits.”

If you’re not already committed to a set of daily practices, the good news is you can begin now.  Or, maybe it’s time to up-level what you’re already doing.
Set yourself up for success by selecting a few key practices you can absolutely commit to, and build from there.  What “success habits” are you missing?
Here are some popular practices to strive for daily.

1) Exercise. A 30-45 minute brisk walk, running, hopping on the bike or stair-master at the gym.  The benefits of cardio and fitness are huge.  What will you commit to?

2) Quiet Time. Meditating is one of the most powerful practices over time.  If that’s not your thing, try stopping at the park on the way home for 10-20 minutes.  And, take 1-2 five-minute breaks and practice being present during the day.

3) Hydration is key. Set a goal to drink of a certain amount of water per day (eight 8 oz. glasses is one common recommendation). It’s amazing how this supports one’s energy levels! And it’s calorie free.

4) Gratitude.  Another popular practice that pays huge dividends is connecting to what you’re most grateful for each day.  Write down 5-10 appreciations each day. Keep a journal. Or spend 5 minutes before you get up in the morning or go to bed at night.

5) Dish Out Some Love.  It doesn’t have to take a lot of time. Snuggle with your spouse.  Look into the eyes of spouse and tell them what you genuinely appreciate.  Pet your cat or dog. Play with your children.  Offer a random act of kindness, which can be as simple as a smile.

6) Indulge in a dose of Vitamin D.  Time outside in nature is very rejuvenating. Ten minutes of direct sunshine can generate 10,000 IU’s of Vitamin D, which adds to your ability to focus, build your immune system and more.

7) Reviewing Goals. A few minutes each days goes a long way in fueling your focus.

8) Reading. Find something that inspires you.  Could be a novel, a scripture, or something related to personal or spiritual growth.

9) Journaling. Write down what you accomplished, what you want to create or let go off.

Remember, it’s quality, not quantity that counts.  Consistency is your biggest ally in getting the most bang-for-your-buck out of your new “Daily Success Habits.”   Once you allow the compounding effect of your practices to kick in, you’ll soon understand that this IS the secret to “having it all.”

Create your own daily practice list, make this a priority, a non-negotiable and see amazing results.