The Power of Healthy Habits
As a small business owner and a parent, I’ve realized that the key to success in both business and personal life lies in establishing and maintaining healthy habits. Drawing inspiration from the influential book Atomic Habits by James Clear, I’ve embraced a practical framework for building new, positive behaviors that sustain personal and professional growth.
Starting Small: The Atomic Way
In Atomic Habits, Clear emphasizes the importance of tiny changes. His philosophy is simple: small adjustments accumulate and lead to remarkable results over time. For us as business owners, this could be as simple as dedicating ten minutes a day towards strategic planning, or setting a specific time for daily team check-ins to foster communication.
James Clear’s Four Laws of Behavior Change
James Clear outlines four essential laws for forming new habits, which I’ve found invaluable:
- Make it Obvious: Design your environment so the cues for good habits are front and center.
- Make it Attractive: Bundle a habit you need to do with one you want to do to make it more appealing.
- Make it Easy: Reduce the friction to start. The simpler a habit, the easier it is to stick with it.
- Make it Satisfying: Ensure there is an immediate reward when you complete a habit, as this increases the likelihood you’ll repeat it.
Tools for Accountability: Embracing Technology
To keep these habits alive and well, accountability is crucial. I personally use Asana and the app Streaks, which is an excellent tool for tracking habits and ensuring daily goals aren’t overlooked. Whether it’s maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, or keeping up with business tasks, Asana & Streaks helps reinforce consistency—the bedrock of effective habit formation.
The Ripple Effect of Self-Care
Taking care of oneself is not just about physical well-being—it’s about being the best version of yourself in every role you play. When I prioritize my health and habits, the benefits cascade through all areas of my life. Improved energy levels enhance my productivity at work, while mental clarity helps me make better decisions—a must for any business leader!
Homeschooling: Cultivating Intentional Learning
As we homeschool our son, we incorporate these principles of habit formation into his education. We’re creating processes in our household that nurture a mindset of intentionality. This approach to learning and life prepares him not just academically, but also instills a strong foundation of self-discipline and responsibility.
Leading by Example
In our family, we live by the principle that “what gets measured gets done.” My husband exemplifies this, continually showing our 10-year-old son the value of consistency. By measuring our progress, whether in business metrics or personal health goals, we not only stay on track but also set a precedent for our team and family about the value of persistence.
Consistency: The Cornerstone of Leadership
As I collaborate with other business owners and navigate my journey, the continuous improvement of my habits remains a focal point. By consistently improving myself, I aim to inspire my peers and employees, illustrating that personal development and professional success are intertwined.
Healthy habits are more than just personal choices; they are a strategic tool that can propel small business owners to new heights. By starting small, using the right tools for accountability, taking care of oneself, leading by example, and fostering an environment of intentional learning at home, we can enhance our lives and businesses in powerful ways.
Remember, the journey to better habits is a marathon, not a sprint. Each small step we take is a building block for lasting success and fulfillment in every aspect of life.