We are constantly absorbing what we do.
If we constantly avoid making effort, we will internalize a lack of initiative. If we constantly reach out to others with love, we will absorb warmth and caring. Change is already starting. Simply changing goals or mindsets will not lead to lasting change.
Notice how athletes work in structured routines. Surgeons learn their craft by faithfully following evidence-based procedures. Performers master their craft through feedback and repetition. When practice and performance are process-based, something psychologically important happens: we internalize a sense of discipline and self-control. Consistency of preparation and practice creates consistency of performance.
To change ourselves psychologically, we can start with just one improvement we want to achieve and create a routine to implement this transformation every day. If I want to embrace the feeling of being physically fit, I can go to the gym every day and challenge my limits in terms of flexibility, exercise, and strength. If I want to absorb discipline into my trading, I can use backtests and performance reviews to create rules that determine when I make trades, where to enter/exit, etc. Following the rules every day leads me to internalize a sense of control. Pushing my limits every day fosters a feeling of growth and accomplishment.
Choose one goal and do one thing to achieve that goal every day for a month. Then take a second goal for a month, etc. and add it to the first. Then a third, then a fourth – and soon you're absorbing a sense of progress, accomplishment, and self-control.
We don't change by thinking new things. We do new things and change the way we think and feel.
What is one thing you will do consistently this week to be the best version of yourself?
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