It’s happened to all of us. We set out with the desire to make important changes and start life-changing routines such as going to the gym, improving on our golf game, eating healthier foods, or learning to play a new instrument. We hit the ground running strongly, but in time, the drive fades.
What happened? The answer is that we lack consistency. Consistency is defined as steadfast adherence to the same principles, course, or form. Consistency is the driving force behind any lasting breakthrough.
Tony Robbins once said, “It’s not what you do every once in a while that matters. It’s what you do every day that matters.” The reason this is true is because of something called “cumulative value.” There’s a cumulative value that accrues or builds over time in almost every single area of our lives.
But why is consistency so difficult? The reason is simple. We live in an instant gratification society. We want everything quickly, yet anything worth having that is important doesn’t come quickly.
Here are 7 key areas in which I work to maintain consistency:
1. Training in Godliness
I Timothy 4:8 says, “Physical training is good, but training for godliness is much better, promising benefits in this life and in the life to come.” My training happens every morning at my kitchen table with my Bible. Consistency with training in godliness will build my strength for the daily race before me.
2. Marriage
Other than my relationship with God (training for godliness), maintaining consistency in my marriage has given me the greatest cumulative value. Romans 12:10 is what guides me, “Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor.” As I honor my wife, she reciprocates, and together, we work toward having a marriage that honors God.
3. Relentless Pursuit
Luke 5:31-32 says, “And Jesus answered them, Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. I have not come to call the righteous but sinners to repentance.” Consistently pursuing people who are far from God is not just a job for me, it’s a calling.
4. Repentance
Consistency in repentance means every single day, I try to be sensitive to the Holy Spirit’s conviction and direction. Repentance has to be a lifestyle or way of life.
5. Financial Investments
Albert Einstein once said, “Compound interest is the eighth wonder of the word.” If you are consistent in your financial investments, over time, the compounding value will astound you.
6. Physical Exercise
If you don’t feel well physically, you won’t have the energy you will need to achieve your goals. It’s important to take care of your body by not only eating the right foods, but also by having a consistent exercise routine. Jim Rohn was right when he said, “Take care of your body. It’s the only place you have to live.” Consistency is the key to any daily fitness routine.
7. Do 3 Things Daily
Every day, I try to consistently do 3 things for my body and 3 things at work. It’s different for everyone, but my 3 things for my body are drink 75 ounces of water, work out, and eat 6 healthy meals a day. Although we all know there are days we do way more than 3 things at work, Michael Hyatt emphasizes the power in going into your day having already identified 3 “must-do” activities for the day.
To recap, if we want to create lasting habits, we have to attack it with consistency. Consistency is the key to your breakthrough.
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