Lost to Consistency!!
The Power and Perils of Routine
Yes! I lost my consistency!
I have been writing at least two articles on Medium since my joining in Feb. But as I mentioned in my last article, I was completely off the grid for the last two months.
In Steven Pressfield’s book, “The War of Art,” he emphasizes the insidious nature of procrastination, stating, “One of the most dangerous aspects of procrastination is its tendency to transform into a habit.”
As someone who grapples with maintaining consistency and forming new habits, I was intrigued to explore how others effectively hold themselves accountable to daily, weekly, or monthly projects.
Consistency is often hailed as the key to success, a guiding principle that helps us achieve our goals and maintain order in our lives. Yet, there comes a point where the pursuit of consistency can inadvertently lead us astray.
No matter, how much I try to justify, I fail to maintain consistency!
But that’s ok for now (at least I feel so) because I realized it myself the difficulty of maintaining consistency.
Putting it simply, I realized that it’s an all-or-nothing concept. It’s not a matter of being either consistently consistent or consistently inconsistent. Instead, it’s about recognizing that consistency is a result of our cumulative actions over time.
By reevaluating our perspective on consistency, we can alleviate the burden often felt by chronic procrastinators like myself. This shift in mindset can shed light on how our inconsistency or tendency to procrastinate is typically fueled by lofty expectations or a perfectionist mindset.
So, the question arises: how to be consistent?
- The Comfort of Familiarity: Routine and consistency offer a sense of comfort and familiarity. They provide structure and predictability, reducing stress and anxiety. Familiar routines can be soothing, creating a sense of control amidst the chaos of daily life. Moreover, consistent practices are frequently sources of joy and fulfillment, offering a sense of purpose and achievement.
- The Risk of Complacency: There is a fine line between productive consistency and the trap of complacency. When we become too comfortable in our routines, we may inadvertently limit our growth and potential by shying away from taking risks, exploring new opportunities, or challenging ourselves to step outside our comfort zones. Complacency breeds stagnation!!
- The Danger of Monotony: Consistency leads to monotony. When every day becomes a repetitive cycle, we may lose our sense of novelty and wonder. Our lives can become predictable and uninspiring. The excitement and zest for life may fade as we fall into the trap of routine, unaware of the possibilities that lie beyond its confines.
- Striking a Balance: To avoid being lost to consistency, it’s crucial to strike a balance. Embrace the power of consistency while remaining open to change and growth. Regularly reassess your routines, goals, and aspirations. Seek new experiences, take calculated risks, and challenge yourself to step outside your comfort zone. Embrace spontaneity and inject variety into your life.
Well, I realized that it can be both a blessing and a curse. While it offers stability, efficiency, and a sense of purpose, it can also lead to complacency and monotony if we become too entrenched in our routines. By striking a balance between consistency and adaptability, we can harness the power of routine while embracing growth, exploration, and the joy of discovering new possibilities.
Thanks for reading!!
