SEPTEMBER 25, 2020
I am certain many of you have heard the old saying, “Practice makes perfect.” Well, I don’t believe in perfect even though I may say it all of the time. I say it to mean that, “for now, it is an improvement or it is OK.” We all need to continue growing so there is always lots to learn. We all have been taught that if you want to be good at something that you should practice it. Whether it is the piano, golf, shooting free throws, or practicing your trade, (While you are at it, why don’t you practice your Faith, Spending more time with your family, and doing something that might enhance your career) practicing does improve our skills (if they are for Good and not evil)
In a world where everything is uncertain, where things change quickly, where chaos reigns, where most things are out of our control, we need to simplify things. It is never about your routine but all about the practice. Be intentional and seek advice from others if you want to practice until it becomes automatic. That should be your goal. Although our daily routines are important, (Because many of us rely on them), the truth is that routines can become very fragile. Disruptions and distractions may pull you off course and keep your mind from focusing on what you need to focus on. This pandemic has certainly caused many of us a disruption in our routines of life. Suddenly you are not able to go to the gym, take your kids to school, or work in the office. Sadly, many times your job may no longer exist. Find the courage to find another one.
Practices are different. These are things you do regularly…perhaps daily. These are things you return to time and time again to center yourself. To reconnect. To focus. I hope you all have something you have been thankful for during this pandemic as it was a gift to many in breaking up some bad routines and thinking about practicing positive ones. Waking up at the same time every day, watching the news, doing prayer or meditation is a routine. Eating the same foods is a practice. Journaling is a practice. Calling your friend or family member at the same time every day is a routine. Exercising is a practice. You get my point.
The routine is about a daily rhythm in life. Practicing is a lifelong pursuit. One can be ruined by something as simple as hitting the snooze button one too many times or getting to called into work unexpectedly. The other can ADAPT accordingly. One is something you made up. The other is something you do.
In my studies of successful people with a purpose in their lives, I have discovered that it takes ENERGY to practice those things that are important to you. Yes, there will be times when you are not able to fulfill your practice habit. But make it a priority in your life to build on some momentum so that if you miss a day, you will be able to pick it back up tomorrow. Don’t let your routine stop your practicing. The following are some key practices successful people do:
- Journaling
- Quiet moments of reflection and meditation
- Exercise
- Reading
- Walking
If you are able, set yourself some small goals and work toward “Practicing” these small goals. Then, once you have some momentum, stretch yourself a little more each day. After a while, you should notice that you might be improving at things. Keep plugging along though. Make time each day for these simple tasks or those tasks that will lift you up. (There is the elevator again) If you violate your own rules, your mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual health will probably suffer. The Stoics tell us; “you don’t control what happens, you only control how you respond.” How do you respond to your routines and practice? Focus on your practice.
Elevator Guy