It’s time for a wake up call on habits. We often hear about turning challenging tasks into habits, like cold calling, paperwork or anything else we hate to do. It sounds great in theory – make something a habit, and it becomes as easy as tying your shoes, right? But here’s a reality check: striving for habits in complex tasks might be more like chasing fool’s gold. Let’s explore why focusing on consistency, constraints, and accountability might be a better approach for your real estate success.
The Habit Mirage
Habits are often touted as the holy grail of productivity. But when it comes to tasks that involve more complexity – like cold calling – the concept of habits can be misleading. These tasks involve not just repetition but also emotional intelligence, adaptability, and a healthy dose of creativity. Turning them into mindless habits? Not really practical, or even desirable.
Why Consistency Beats Habit: Instead of aiming to make these tasks habitual, aim for consistency. Consistency is about showing up, day after day, and doing the work – even when it’s tough, even when it’s the last thing you want to do. It’s not about doing it mindlessly, but mindfully – with intention and focus.
The Role of Constraints: Setting constraints can be incredibly powerful. By limiting your options, you reduce decision fatigue. For example, dedicate a specific time slot for cold calls. This constraint creates a structure that encourages consistency. It’s not about making the calls automatic; it’s about making the commitment to do them regular.
Accountability as a Key Driver: Accountability is your secret weapon. Whether it’s a coach, a colleague, or a performance tracker, having someone or something to answer to can dramatically boost your consistency. Knowing you’re accountable for your actions transforms your approach from a ‘maybe I will’ to a ‘I must do this’.
Embracing the Challenge: Let’s be real: tasks like cold calling will always have a degree of difficulty. But that’s not a bad thing. Embracing the challenge, being present and engaged in the process, is what makes you better at what you do. It’s where growth happens.
Small Steps, Significant Impact: Consistency in small steps leads to significant impacts. Improve your call script bit by bit. Refine your approach to follow-ups. These incremental improvements, driven by consistent action, lead to better results than any ‘habit’ ever could.
Wrapping It Up: So, forget about turning complex tasks into habits. Focus on building a consistent routine, setting smart constraints, and holding yourself accountable. This approach brings a level of intention and engagement to your work that habit formation just can’t match. It’s about working smarter, with purpose, and turning those efforts into real results. Keep pushing, keep improving, and watch how this mindset transforms not just your work, but your entire approach to being a successful Realtor.
