Building Better Habits: The Power of Small Steps, Visual Cues, and Self-Compassion

1) Begin with Incremental Steps

When implementing habit changes, the temptation to overhaul your routine in one sweeping move can be substantial.  However, such ambitious efforts often falter under their weight.  Instead, start with something manageable.  For instance, rather than committing to a rigorous gym schedule five days a week from the outset, consider beginning with a simple habit like ten push-ups per day.  Anchor this new habit to an existing one—such as brushing your teeth—so it seamlessly integrates into your routine.  Once established, gradually build on it: add ten squats, then incorporate a ten-minute walk.  This progressive approach ensures sustainability.  Remember, monumental achievements, like the construction of the Eiffel Tower, took time.  Similarly, we cultivate life-changing habits gradually.

2) Leverage Visual Triggers and Cues

Incorporating visual triggers is a powerful strategy for habit formation.  The key is to position these cues in locations where they cannot be ignored, thus preventing the phenomenon of change blindness.  For example, to reinforce a habit of drinking more water, place a tumbler in a prominent spot on your desk or somewhere you'll notice it immediately upon leaving your office.  This physical reminder prompts you to grab the tumbler and refill it, reinforcing the habit of staying hydrated.  Such simple yet effective cues can significantly enhance your adherence to new habits.

3) Give Yourself  a Break

Habit formation is not a one-size-fits-all process.  It's important to acknowledge that establishing a new habit may take longer for some than others.  Missed days, steps, or setbacks are part of the journey.  It's crucial to extend grace to yourself during these moments.  While it may be frustrating to lose momentum, the commitment to progress—rather than perfection—is what truly matters.  Embrace the process, knowing that occasional missteps do not negate the overall trajectory of your growth.  The focus should always be on moving forward, not dwelling on past shortcomings.

Conclusion

Don't underestimate the power of small wins and the importance of patience and persistence in the habit-building process.  Success is not a result of a single defining moment but the sum of all your small habits.  By focusing on making minor improvements consistently, you can achieve remarkable results over time.

Now it's your turn.  Identify one habit that you would like to incorporate into your professional life.  Why not get started today or this week?

About the Author

John Seville is an entrepreneurial technology and business leader. He has successfully launched four businesses during his career: Computer Consultants of Colorado, Chief Technology Consultants, (the) Center for Transformative Coaching, and his most recent venture, Ascent Leadership Group, which he started in 2018 and serves as the Managing Principal. In addition to his entrepreneurial ventures, John has served in multiple corporate CIO and COO roles. The Denver Business Journal (DBJ) and the Society for Information Management (SIM) nominated John for the Colorado CIO of the Year award. Connect with John by emailing him at john.seville@AscentLeadershipGroup.com