Listen

Podcast Episode 246 - Create the Life of Your Dreams One Habit at a Time

Read

Do you ever make a habit, do it one day and then promptly forget about it?

Have you ever decided to turn over a new leaf and made about ten changes but could never keep up with them?

Do you dream about one day doing something, like writing a book or running a marathon, but continually think, I don’t have enough time today to start?

Let’s talk about habits. In the last episode, we learned the secret to cracking the habit code…habits are pre-made decisions. Now we need to get those pre-made decisions working in our lives. But how?

Today is for you if…

If you struggle to stay on the habit train.
If you desire to make a permanent change.
If you’re ready to create your dream life, one habit at a time.

Habits make your dreams possible; without them, we’ll never get around to fulfilling our dreams.

Remember, habits are pre-made decisions. And it doesn’t mean your habit is automatic; it means you decided to do that thing come hell or high water.

If you missed the last episode, you can check it out after you finish this one.

Start with One Habit - Pre-made Decision

It’s too much to try and start a bunch of habits at once. Start with one–just one.

Get consistent with that one habit before adding more.

I remember when I started exercising back in 2017. It was the first time I was consistent in my life exercising.

I started with 5 minutes 3 times per week.

I didn’t do anything else but 5 minutes 3 times per week for a couple of weeks.

Add One More Habit

Add one habit at a time, not ten at a time.

Then I added more time, five more minutes, to be exact…but not more days.

I did that for a few more weeks.

Then I added one more day.

Use Timers

Timers are great reminders but also a great way to see how long something takes.

Have you ever overestimated how long something would take?

So you wouldn’t start that project because you thought I don’t have an hour, so I can’t do it.

Or, have you ever underestimated how long something would take?

You thought you could finish it in 20 minutes, but it took an hour and made you late for picking up your kid?

Start using timers to track how long it takes you to do something.

What if you have 5 minutes between appointments? Use a timer and work on that project for five minutes.

Yes, five minutes over time can make a huge difference.

A penny doubled every day for 30 days equals over 5 million dollars.

Habits compounded over time will make your dreams come true.

Write Your Pre-Made Decisions Down

I’m forever misplacing my mental notes, which clogs up my brain space. Write them down to get them out of your head.

I have several goals I’m working on, but the details have stayed in my head. I sometimes feel overwhelmed and afraid I will forget something important.

I spent this weekend adding my goals to Trello (project tracking system) to get them out of my head and in front of me.

But you could use a paper planner or even a legal pad.

My husband started using the Habit app because he likes paperless.

Use the Power of Accountability

Let people know what you’re working on and give them permission to hold you accountable.

The Habits app also allows you to connect with friends on habits so they can send you promptings during the day to remind you of your pre-made decisions.

Remember Your Why

Remind yourself why you’re making these habits to begin with.

For my house, I’m doing it to alleviate the feeling of overwhelm.

For my writing, podcasting, etc., I’m doing it to move my dreams forward of helping other ladies like me fulfill their dreams.

Don’t forget to give yourself grace. You’re going to miss days. Beat yourself up will never help you keep going.

Just pick yourself back up and say, “It’s okay. I’m still worthy. I can do it now.”

Homework:

Which habit / pre-made decision are you going to start with?
What tips will you employ to help you get it done regularly?

I want to leave you with this final thought from Dana White, author of How to Manage Your Home Without Losing Your Mind.

“Don’t judge… any habit, on the first day. Judge it on the day when you don’t have a panic attack at the thought of opening your front door and letting people into your home.” - Dana K. White, How to Manage Your Home Without Losing Your Mind

Habits / Pre-made Decisions compounded over time will make your dreams come true. Don’t give up; pick yourself up and keep moving forward!

If you’re enjoying this podcast, please share it with a friend.

You’ve got this, and Father’s got you!

Thanks a bunch for listening!

Until Next Time, Live Fearlessly Free!!

Resources:

*How to Manage Your Home Without Losing Your Mind: Dealing with Your House's Dirty Little Secrets by Dana K. White: https://amzn.to/3NSxxtY

* Amazon affiliate link - I will receive a small commission if you purchase through this link.

Habit App:

Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/habit-tracker/id1438388363

Sorry, not sure the Android equivalent 🤔 Sorry!

Podcast-Blog