This series is designed for individuals who have limited time and energy, but unlimited thirst for genuine growth in their lives, whether that is about personal or professional dreams and aspirations.

This is because any 5 to 10 minute ritual can compound into meaningful positive change, be it exercising, meditating or simply getting better at our craft.

1. Eliminate comparison with others. James Clear, author of Atomic Habits, beautifully summarized how external comparisons are a source of nuisance: “Compete against yourself. When you look outside — your rivals, your industry, your luck — there is always something to blame. When you look inside — your process, your effort, your rate of learning — there is always something to improve.” When we are focused on what we can control and improve, we will always come out better and ahead of the prior version of our ourselves. At the end, that is what matters and is most fulfilling – a version of us that is evolving and growing. Every time you find yourself in a comparison trap, go back to “your process, your effort, your rate of learning“.
2. Focus on progress not perfection. This mindset helps us stay focused on what we can learn, do, and improve versus beating ourselves up for any shortcomings or imperfections. Building momentum and evidence of our progress serve us better than self criticism and negativity. Refuse to become your own saboteur. Progress is a path to change, but we need to stay committed to our goals through discomfort, feedback and failures at times. This is not an excuse for lacking discipline, hard work or accountability … but an acknowledgement that growth is not always linear.
3. Schedule something to get excited about. We are all human beings with need for rest, relaxation and community around us. The same challenge or stressful situation will reduce its effect on us when we also take care of ourselves. By taking the time to enjoy an outing, a special activity or simply a nap, we remind ourselves of our human needs and identities beyond work and miscellaneous responsibilities. Building a habit out of scheduling some R&R moments in advance is both practical in our busy lives but also a constant reminder of our humanity.