Do you ever read about a self-development idea and think, "Yeah! That's a great idea/technique/approach. I'll definitely make that a part of my life...ummmm...maybe tomorrow."
I know I do. Despite my best intentions, I just can't overcome inertia and bridge the gap between the nonexistent and the consistent.
To counter that, I have started creating 30-day containers in which I experiment with a new idea. Rather than steadfastly incorporating something new into my life for all eternity, I turn it into an experiment with a finite time-frame.
Instead of going into it with a rigid expectation that it will have a massively positive impact, I go into it with a sense of curiosity. "What will happen if I do this for thirty days? What results will I get? How will this affect me?" I leave the door open to a positive result. I also leave the door open to being surprised and discovering something I hadn't expected.
If there's something valuable there, I can continue incorporating some or all of it into my life. If there's not, I can leave it by the side of the road.
The 30-day container does two things. First, it makes it short enough to feel doable, and second, it creates a sense of focus and commitment. "I'm going to do this every day for 30 days" is a lot more likely to yield consistent action than, "I'm going to do this from now on."
What 30-day experiment could you start today?
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by Curt Rosengren, Passion Catalyst
What a fantastic change of approach, Curt. I like the shift from discipline to experiment. That'd work for me!
Posted by: Pete Aldin | September 09, 2008 at 05:08 PM
Thanks Pete! It is amazing what a difference a little perspective shift can make, isn't it.
Posted by: Curt Rosengren | September 10, 2008 at 02:33 PM