The Ripple Effect

Build daily habits that can carry you through your day and life

Here’s a look at the start of my day.

I like to get up and work out daily. Regardless of how long, I’m always pushing until I can barely breathe. Something about getting my heart pumping to make me think that I’m keeping distance between myself and the grim reaper.

Next, I sit down and read 10 pages of the War of Art. I consider this my kryptonite for helping me set a proper mindset and keeping negative thoughts at bay. Mostly. Look no one is perfect.

Next, I like to meditate for 15 minutes. Some deep breathing sitting on my porch and feeling the breeze and hoping my dogs don’t come along and interrupt me.

Finally, I like to make a nice cup of coffee. We can have a separate discussion about the range of emotions that coffee brings. The first sip you think about all the whole time you’re working out and that last slip brings a touch of melancholy and the countdown to tomorrow’s first sip.

Why am I telling you about the start to my day? Because regardless of what your routine consists of in the morning, keystone habits like these can really help set the tone for a helluva day.

What are keystone habits? Think of these as small wins that aim to make the rest of your day easier. Like a string of singles in baseball game that soon add up to runs. It’s a domino effect. Think of them like small actions that set a chain of other reactions to propel you throughout the day.

Your small habits or keystone habits can be anything. It could be a morning yoga session, making your bed first thing, taking the dog(s) for a walk, or just taking a few deep breaths to start the morning. Maybe it's reading a few pages of a great book, a positive interaction with your loved one, or that tasty breakfast that you have waiting in the fridge.

Your habits do not need to be impressive but what’s great is that they set up specific habit loops. These routines and practices that we put in place each day should be the default start the day. Whether positive or negative, they can have a ripple effect on everything you do in life.

Remember, we as human beings tend to be consistent so the habits you do without thinking can have a great effect. So make those habits positive and consistent and use them to propel you to greatness today.

Every Friday, I share lessons to my kids that can apply to everyone else.

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