As a health coach, I spend the vast majority of my day helping my clients evaluate their behaviors and habits as they relate to reaching their goals. This has made me highly aware of the notion: We are what we repeatedly do. I’m fascinated by this idea.
People act the way they do because of their personality traits and attitudes, right? If you return a lost wallet, it’s because you value honesty. If you recycle your cans, it’s because you care about the environment. While it is true that behavior emanates from people's inner dispositions, it’s also true that we do things out of social pressure or influence.
I’ve spent time considering this from a coaching perspective. How do I help my clients understand their behaviors and habits when we are all the constant subject of influence? More so now, than ever-- so much so that being an “influencer” is now a verified profession.
Circling back to the notion that we are what we repeatedly do, there’s more to that quote and it finishes its sentiment by saying, “therefore excellence is not an act, but a habit.”
This is so powerful in its simplicity. Excellence isn’t something that boom, just happens—it’s in your daily habits. This is great news. Because it means that impressive results or enormous changes are possible without herculean effort or magic. Small adjustments, good systems, and awareness—that’s what it takes. Consider things like:
Your morning/night self-care routine.
What you study and practice.
Who you have in your life as influences.
Where you go and how you spend your time.
There is nothing more powerful than a good habit. Nothing that holds us back quite like a bad habit. We are what we do. What we do determines who we can be.
My 12-week course focuses on habits, behavior change, and mindset. Having the tools you need to get to your goal is one part of the equation, and understanding your behaviors and habits is the other.
These are difficult times we’re in. Economic uncertainty, personal adversity, and climate change are all pressing issues. These things can sink you, or they can be opportunities to rise to the occasion. If you can cultivate good habits, you can survive—even thrive on—what lies ahead.
My challenge to you is to consider your daily habits in the upcoming week. How much of the habits you engage in are a product of seeking what you want, versus, feeling outside influence (positive or negative) to engage in the habit? Creating awareness is the first step to evaluating your habits.
I would love to hear what you reflect on and come up with in the comments below!
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