The Power of Consistency

With the completion of my drafting goal in the first quarter of this year, I’ve finally bought into the impact of “consistency”. I’d heard it listening to entrepreneurial podcasts, in writing groups, and related to fitness and health goals, but I really didn’t see what the fuss was all about.

Now, I believe in its impact. As I hold the weight of my printed manuscript in my hands, I can feel the power of consistency pulsing through the pages. It wasn’t one big sprint that allowed me to accomplish the goal. It was showing up day after day, even when I didn’t want to, and attempting to put something on the page.

I ventured out for a hike this morning. I’ve got plans for a block of editing time this afternoon and wanted to get my body moving before I superglue it to my writing desk chair. As I curved along the dirt path, mountain views peeking through the shrubs, my mind wandered back to the concept of consistency. If I am willing to acknowledge how powerful the practice of consistency is, in what ways am I using it to my benefit…and my detriment?

For one, I built the strength in my legs by engaging in consistent exercise, both in the gym and out in nature. These efforts are helping me prepare for another summer of hiking and overnight trips into the wilderness.

In my younger years, I didn’t take sun exposure very seriously. I wasn’t diligent about applying sunblock each day, and because I consistently neglected my skin, I had to have a spot on my nose removed when I was 32 years old. Now I’ve switched up my consistency, making sure I apply a layer of sun protection daily plus choosing a hat on the brighter days.

But how else can I apply this concept of consistency? Where else might it benefit me to look at my habits and routines?

Lately, I’ve been really consistent about choosing a sweet treat at the end of the day. Is this building to something I desire?

My mind also consistently plays out the worst case scenario and I allow it to run free. I don’t want to even imagine what I’m building by continuing to entertain that practice.

So food for thought: How are we showing up consistently? Is that what we want to build? How might we exercise consistency in a way that builds something we actually desire?