The human brain is not a great memory device. It is a machine for ideation. However, routines are critical to building positive habits. So, we need to be reminded to do them deliberately, consciously, and consistently. Triggers are a great way to make that happen. Here are some of the simple triggers I use.
Starting with the end in mind is one of the habits of high performers. So, I have identified 3 Keywords that define my future self. I have asked Ashwini to prepare a bracelet with these words. That prop is my reminder to live the attributes I have projected for myself in the future.
Similarly, I have identified 3 Keywords about how I want to manage social interactions. Most often, our desired emotional states and accompanying feelings are divergent from our ideal state while dealing with people. I have an alarm on my mobile phone with these words in the subject line. It goes on three times a day between 9 am to 7 pm at equal intervals. Most often, in that period, I am with people. It refocuses me on committed core values.
Every day we make hundreds of transitions. We step out for a morning walk or go to the gym. Return home and have breakfast. Drive to our office, attend meetings, and make presentations. Each of these is a transition from one state to another. The concept of starting with the end in mind applies in all these situations. However, we rarely are conscious of this. So, I use the door prop to remind me of a transition. Doors mark the movement from one state to another. So, whenever I open a door, I reiterate the values I aspire to live. I have found this simple hack extremely useful and productive.
There are a few other triggers I use. It includes reminding me to drink water every 2 hours and a break of 5 minutes after every 45 min.
Am I able to be in the ideal mental state and at the peak of my productivity all day long? Certainly not. But the days when I am at 60% and more are magical. That's my real goal. Triggers are a medium to make that possible.
Subodh Gadgil (Nov 29, 2022)
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