There is no shortcut to developing strong character and resilience – it requires consistency and discipline in our daily actions and choices. Small acts done repeatedly over time can shape who we become.
As Bob Hasson, author of Shortcuts shared on a recent episode of Raising the Standard, “There’s an amount of work ethic, grit, determination and resilience…. The only way I know how to do this is to be in community with like-minded people who can give you the courage to help you back up and to put you back in the direction to run the race to the high calling.”
Forming good habits starts with daily practice and ritual. Whether that’s setting goals each morning, spending time listening to God, or cultivating gratitude, small steps become routines that shape our character.
As Bob notes, “It’s a practice that has become important to me.” These routines help us center ourselves, stay focused, and develop the self-awareness to navigate life well.
Here are 8 ways to form good habits through daily practice and discipline:
- Set goals and intentions. Start each day by setting clear goals for what you want to accomplish. Write them down and review them throughout the day.
- Develop a daily routine. Having a regular morning and evening routine can help structure your day and create consistency. Include spiritual disciplines, exercise, and other priorities.
- Practice mindfulness. Take moments throughout the day to be fully present. Whether praying, eating a meal, or engaging in a conversation – do it with intention and focus.
- Use reminders and checklists. Technology can help you remember to keep practicing good habits each day. Set reminders, create to-do lists, and track your progress.
- Build in accountability. Share your goals and intentions with a friend, spouse, or accountability partner. Having someone to check in with increases your likelihood of following through.
- Stay busy, but rest. Fill your days with productivity but make sure to carve out time for relaxation, rejuvenation and sabbath. An appropriate work-life balance supports long-term discipline.
- Start small. Don’t try to completely overhaul your routine overnight. Make one small, actionable change and build from there. Consistency over time yields big results.
- Reflect regularly. Take stock of your progress, challenges and learnings. Adjust your approach as needed but don’t give up on the daily practice altogether.
Resilience also comes through daily practice – of getting back up when we fall, dusting ourselves off, and continuing forward. While work isn’t always enjoyable, pushing through the difficulties builds character and grit. As we persevere through challenges rather than giving up, we grow and learn.
Whether at work, in our spiritual life, or in relationships, developing character and resilience requires discipline and consistency in our daily choices. The small actions we take – and stick with – shape who we become over time.
Though there are no shortcuts, daily practice and ritual create the foundation we need to develop strength of character and gritty resilience for the long haul.
