I fell off my habit wagon, and realized how harshly I can judge myself.
I have been using a habit tracker for 65 days. Seems ridiculous for me. I was doing really well completing 5 habit builders a day and then I sort of fell off the wagon where each day I would get a different assortment completed.
There are a couple habits I have never missed. Even if all I did was show up, and try for 5 minutes. I showed up that’s 50% of the battle.
Tonight I had a little awareness moment, where I felt disappointed in myself for having lost so many streaks. I remembered just 4 days ago thinking how great I was doing… and how bad I am doing now with only 1 streak in tact.
Then I recognized what was happening. I was judging my self against a set of expectations, and falling short.
My expectation had been that I get 100% completion rate. I realized, looking at my phone, how naive that was. Why in the fuck would I expect that I would be at 100% achievement rate?
The good news is I have a bunch of data that tells me where I am actually weak at completing my goals and can dig into why? why? why? why? why?
Peel the onion. Why are you so hard on yourself?
Setting realistic expectations is part of the package of being effective. So instead of looking for 100% or all green or red streaks, start with an effectiveness rate. How often do you get all your goals met? Why? Why not? Set a target slightly above the current rate and plan how you will make it happen for today. And tonight, think about tomorrow. No further.
And remember to be kind to yourself. If you don’t love, treat yourself with care, encourage, and cheer lead for yourself who will?
One Response
I am usually to running a blog and i really admire your content. The article has really peaks my interest. I’m going to bookmark your site and hold checking for brand new information.