Finding Consistency in a World of Disruptions

The Power of 2 Minutes - Daily Motivation #314( 29th April 2024)

Life throws curveballs. Unexpected interruptions and unforeseen challenges are inevitable.

But what sets successful people apart is their ability to weather these storms and maintain consistency in pursuit of their goals. This is the story of my personal journey with consistency, a quality that has become my hallmark and propelled me through diverse career paths.

A recent experience underscored the importance of consistency for me.

For three straight days, a barrage of interruptions derailed my writing schedule. Each moment felt like a lost opportunity, a gnawing reminder that consistency fuels my happiness and sense of accomplishment.

A few years ago, a colleague made a perceptive observation. My prompt responses to messages (within 4 hours) led them to believe that a non-response could only signify two things: a broken or stolen phone or a health emergency. This anecdote, validated on multiple occasions, highlighted the power of consistent behavior in establishing trust and reliability.

While I value consistency, I'm not afraid of change.

I view consistency as a compass, not a chain. It's about maintaining a core principle – in my case, the dedication to putting in consistent effort – even when navigating new paths.

Imagine driving the same route for work every day for years. Suddenly, a natural disaster blocks the road. Most people wouldn't simply give up on their destination. They'd find a new route, even if it took longer. That's my approach. I may take a break (313 days in this analogy!), but my commitment to reaching my goals remains unwavering.

My professional journey reflects this philosophy.

My career path has taken me from assistant editor to real estate analyst, private equity manager, entrepreneur, and various sales and delivery roles, spanning industries like journalism, IT, and digital transformation.

The industries and roles may have changed, but my core value of consistency remained constant. It's the repeated application of effort and the relentless pursuit of improvement that has fueled my success across such diverse fields.

Consistency isn't about blind repetition. It's about continuous improvement.

Here are some key strategies to cultivate this valuable trait:        

• Be Your Own Cheerleader: You are ultimately responsible for your success. Don't rely on external motivation. Find your internal drive and trust in your ability to persevere.
• Embrace Problem-Solving: View obstacles as opportunities to learn and grow. Develop a "Plan B" mentality and focus on finding solutions, not dwelling on problems.
• Celebrate Milestones: Acknowledge and reward your progress, no matter how small. This reinforces positive behavior and keeps you motivated.

• Online Course: "The Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance" by Angela Duckworth on Coursera
• Book: "Mindset: The New Psychology of Success" by Carol Dweck

This daily newsletter reflects my personal views, with the sole intention of helping each other grow. I'm always happy to discuss and hear your perspectives!