Understandably, people like to succeed. That’s pretty obvious. Whether it’s in financial pursuits or even in the gym, we naturally feel good when we accomplish our goals. The problem, then, is knowing how to be successful. Thankfully, there are some powerful lessons to be learned from the habits of successful people.
Focus
It may be an unpopular statement, but it needs to be said : Multitasking is a lie. While you may think that you’re doing two things at once, according to Psychology Today the reality is that your brain is simply switching back and forth between tasks very quickly. In effect, your brain is only giving partial attention the each of the tasks. Because of this terrible, disappointing truth trying to multitask can actually reduce your productivity.
Become An Early Riser
Forbes directly connects getting any early start with success in any endeavor. But so does science. Even though it might not always feel like it, your brain functions it’s best in the morning. For one thing, you’re more able to focus on a given task since the pressures of the day haven’t settled in yet. But research also suggests that morning people tend to be more proactive, optimistic and conscientious than night owls – all of which are valuable attributes if you want to succeed. If you struggle with this, Biologist Christoph Randler suggests shifting your bed time so that you will naturally wake up earlier. Randler also says that getting outside into the sunlight earlier can help to reset your circadian rhythm.
Exercise Regularly
While trying to juggle all the other aspects of your life, exercise often gets a low priority. The fact is, though, that this could be counterproductive. Of course, exercise will keep you physically healthy and able to meet the challenges of an active life. What many people don’t realize, however, is that exercise can increase the health and function of your brain. Numerous studies have shown that regular exercise can speed up your processing speed, improve your memory and even protect your brain against degenerative conditions later in life.
Prioritize
Now that science has debunk multitasking, it’s even more important to have a solid list of priorities. Be willing to let go of things that aren’t important, whether they are physical things getting in your way or just concepts that are holding you back. And once you either get rid of those obstacles altogether or set them aside, know what things need your attention and give them that needed focus. This includes understanding where family and your personal health fit into your priorities.
Know Your Reason
What is your goal? In the realm of health and fitness, the importance of having an appropriate, attainable goal is always being pushed but it is just as vital in other pursuits. If you’re working hard, you need to know why. What are you trying to accomplish and when do you want it to be done? Think your goals through and have a definite plan of action. Then, write your goal done so that it serves as a remind for you to work towards.
