Find rhythm of success to keep up with life's pace

  • Published
  • By Chief Master Sgt. Daniel DeSmet
  • 945th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron superintendent
TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  When you study the daily routines of successful people, you see an undeniable trend. You see a rhythm. You don't typically attribute a single event to success, it's most often a repeated behavior or action which transforms over time. A rhythm is not an event. Take marriage for instance, you can have an outstanding wedding ceremony event but the ceremony won't be enough to sustain a lasting and successful marriage for the next 30 years. It will be the things you do for each other, day-in and day-out, the way you consistently love each other, the rhythm you establish, the rhythm that sustains and leads to success.

One scientific study showed that most people need 66 days on average of repeated behavior to form a habit. Everyone is different and you need to find a way to help you stay on track. Find small ways to improve the physical, spiritual, financial and professional areas of your life.

Develop a groove. A body in motion stays in motion.

· Start your day with positive re-enforcement, a daily devotional, time to meditate or a plan for your day.

· Find a mentor to engage with once a week, go to lunch, get a coffee or even just a phone call.

· Set aside 15 minutes each morning to do pushups, sit-ups, run or do some type of physical activity.

· Plan your meals for the week and shop for that plan.

· Commit to get to know someone better, talk to people and listen. Real opportunities come from getting to know people.

· Keep your changes realistic. Different life situations require flexibility. Don't beat yourself up if you get off track, just get back on track.

· Recruit a friend or family member to join you, to support you and keep you on track. A friendly competition can be helpful.

You have a choice. You can continue to live reactively or you can plan and live deliberately. When you live deliberately, you are in the driver's seat and you are in control of your destiny. Daily established routines help to keep your life on track, even when unexpected change occurs. A healthier psyche builds confidence and increases resiliency. Start off slow and steady. Your efforts may seem small and inconsequential, but their cumulative effect will be noticeable over time.

The rhythm of life will continue to beat regardless, but if you strive to live deliberately and establish your rhythm, success will find you. Consistent effort grows predictable success. What are you waiting for?