Be Consistent: How Discipline Shapes Your Story

We often underestimate the importance of consistency because it does not feel exciting and often the results aren’t immediately visible. We have sensationalised the story of the average person to make it seem like the big overnight success stories are the exciting stories we need to chase after, when in reality, success lies in the detail of your consistency.

Similar, to the story of the tortoise and the hare, slow and steady can win the race. In fact, more success stories come from the consistent players who tell you about the daily discipline needed to reach each milestone and ultimately their goal. For example, imagine you want to win the Comrades marathon with no experience in running? Crazy to even imagine right? In fact, every runner of the Comrades will tell you a story of consistency and endurance in their practice. That practice is not a few days or weeks, but rather years of effort and discipline.

Motivation Is Not Always Enough

We like the idea of feeling motivated. Like in the Tortoise and the Hare story, the Hare represents the burst of energy and motivation that kicks us off but starts to lose momentum the longer the race. He represents that surge of energy when you decide to start something new. The excitement of a fresh goal. The clarity of a new direction.

But, like in the story, motivation is temporary. It comes and goes depending on your mood, your environment, your energy levels, and your circumstances. And if you rely on motivation alone, your progress will always be inconsistent.

However, consistency requires commitment. An internal promise to keep showing up even when low in motivation, energy, or during bad times and we just don’t feel like it.

Systems, Systems, Systems

In order to be consistent, you need to have a system. A system is having a list or a framework of repeatable processes, actions or resources that supports the build up to reaching your goal. For example, that can include having a schedule you use for times to practice for your marathon, a checklist of clothes/items needed in both practice and on marathon days, or having devices that measure your progress. All of these systems make it easier to achieving your goals and reduces the cognitive load required to prepare or complete each milestone.

Think of consistency as putting a coin in a jar every day to save money, and systems as the things that remind you and ensure you put that coin in with as little mental resources required as possible. I.e. the action get’s done so you don’t lose momentum.

What Gets in the Way

If consistency is so powerful, why is it so hard to maintain? Often, it comes down to a few common patterns:

• Expecting quick results and losing patience

• Letting one missed day turn into giving up entirely

• Waiting to feel ready before taking action

• Overcommitting and burning out

Consistency is not about being perfect. It is about returning and being realistic with your goals.

 

Owning Your Story Means Showing Up

If you want to own your story, you have to be someone who shows up for it. Not just when it feels good. Not just when it is convenient. But instead, shows up for yourself consistently. Because your habits are the tools writing your story, whether you realise it or not.