The most successful people all have certain habits in their daily routines.
These habits (which admittedly aren’t sexy and are even a bit boring) will help you work smarter, get more out of your day, and take your performance to the next level.
“You will never change your life until you change something you do daily. The secret of your success is found in your daily routine.” John Maxwell.
1. Set up your day – choose your focus (or others will choose it for you)
Before your day kicks off ask yourself: What are the 3 most important things I must get done today (in line with my weekly/90-day plan)?
Ensure your top 3’s are non-negotiable. Your ability to discern what to focus on and what to say no to, is a game changer. If you’re uncomfortable delegating or saying no, you’re probably not doing it enough.
2. Make every meeting purposeful
Here are 4 key steps to using meeting time wisely:
- Align on the purpose and time allocation
- Agree on the criteria by which decisions will be made
- Move the conversation on if the detail isn’t necessary
- Seek commitments when decisions are made.
3. Maintain high standards
The only expectations you need to live up to are the ones you expect of yourself. Your standards are a set of behaviours – what you expect of you every day. High performers maintain standards like these:
- I’m 100% responsible for my results
- I keep every promise that I make to myself and others
- I am the example I wish to see in others, no exceptions
- I work the hours that give me the balance I want.
“Any time you sincerely want to make a change, the first thing you must do is raise your standards” Tony Robbins
4. Get out of your comfort zone
Do something every day that stretches you and makes you uncomfortable. The more okay you are with uncertainty and having a go versus getting it right and looking good, the faster you’ll grow and develop. For example:
- Give feedback on demand versus thinking it over and waiting until the time is right to give it. The right time is now.
- Develop your connections. Invite someone you don’t know for a coffee to explore ideas that can benefit you both. They can’t say no if you don’t ask them (and they might say yes)
- Have a voice: Lean in and give your idea or opinion. Back you and trust you’ll have value to add (turn down your inner-critic voice).
5. Decide how you will show up – regardless of what happens
Your attitude and emotional state is always on show. The more self-aware you are the greater chance you have to engage, influence and inspire others. Decide to be:
- Curious – to learn and understand
- Open – to hear diverse perspectives
- Judgment free – to listen without judging (as good/bad, right/wrong, us/them)
- Grateful – to appreciate everyone makes a unique contribution – even if you don’t agree with it.
What are the habits you want to keep, toss, and introduce into your daily routine?
