The Power of Compound Effect?
Little drops of water make a mighty ocean
Have you ever heard the saying, “Little drops of water make a mighty ocean”? Well, that’s the essence of the compound effect. It’s a powerful principle that shows how small actions can lead to remarkable results when done consistently over time. Initially, it might not seem like much, but over weeks and months, it makes a huge impact.
Here, consistency is a very important factor. Without consistency, it won’t give the expected result. In simple terms, the compound effect is all about the magic of consistency. It’s about making small, everyday choices that may not seem great in the beginning. But, when added together over time, can lead to extraordinary outcomes. Consistency plays a crucial role in learning a new skill.
Let me also warn you that the compounding effect also applies to bad habits. This means that if you consistently practice a bad habit (which we are usually attracted to), it becomes increasingly difficult to break. The same principle applies when you consistently follow a good habit. I feel that bad habits are easier to adopt than good ones. The choice is ultimately yours.
Story of Jadav Payeng
Jadav Payeng, also known as the “Forest Man” of India, represents the outstanding power of consistency in environmental protection. In 1979, devastated by the loss of trees on Majuli Island in Assam, India, Payeng took it upon himself to restore the ecosystem single-handedly. Day after day, year after year, he tirelessly planted trees on the barren land, nurturing them with care and dedication. Though he faced so much skepticism, he remained consistent on his mission. Because he believed in the result of his actions. Over four decades, the barren landscape transformed into a forest ecosystem, spreading over 1,360 acres.
Payeng’s work has earned him notable recognition, including the prestigious Padma Shri award, one of India’s highest civilian awards. His efforts have been highlighted in various articles and documentaries, inspiring others to join him in environmental conservation efforts.
Payeng’s remarkable story serves as powerful evidence of the compounding effect.
The Shawshank Redemption
In the movie “The Shawshank Redemption,” the character Andy Dufresne shows the power of consistency in times of difficulty. He plays the role of a banker who was wrongfully convicted of a crime and sentenced to life in Shawshank State Prison.
From the moment he steps into Shawshank, Andy maintains his dignity, even in the most dehumanizing of circumstances. He never lets the harsh situations of prison life break his spirit. Instead, he chooses to gather all his energy to escape from the Shawshank by tunneling the wall. It takes him 19 years to consistently chip off the wall with a tiny rock hammer.
Here, I want to mention how Andy could make a tunnel with a 6-inch rock hammer without getting caught by prison security. What could have gone through his mind? What made him wait for 19 long years to accomplish this impossible task?
He patiently waits for the right moment to execute his escape plan. Finally, his consistency pays off. He escapes from the tunnel to freedom.
Let’s not talk about the context or morality of his actions here. The way Andy’s journey is depicted in the movie conveys the powerful message of “how consistency can bring success to our lives”.
The Book
In “The Compound Effect,” Darren Hardy explains the important rules for achieving success. He shares the basic ideas that have helped many people succeed in business, relationships, and more. This book offers a simple, step-by-step system without any tricks or magic. It helps you increase your success rate, track progress, and reach your goals. The main idea is that the choices you make shape your future. Small decisions you make every day can lead to either the life you want or problems. This book teaches you how to win every time, stop your bad habits (some you might not even know you have), and motivate yourself to do things you don’t want to do.
So, whether your target is to improve your health, grow your wealth, or achieve personal goals, understanding the power of the compound effect can be the key.
