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Why A Daily Routine Matters
“Win the morning, and you win the day.”
~ Aries Spears ~
Whether you believe it or not, the things you habitually do or do not do every day, consciously or unconsciously, will determine how healthy, successful, and happy you will be. That’s how powerful routines and habits are. It would help if you were mindful of the activities you engage with every day. Reflect and ask the following questions: “Are there things you’re supposed to do but have not done?” and “Are there things you did that should not have?” This discourse deals with the distinctions between routine and habit and how adhering to a consistent routine and good habits can unlock your full potential.
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A person who consciously sets routines can be likened to a pigeon with a keen homing instinct that can navigate its way back home no matter how far away from its loft you release it. Conversely, anyone who does not have specific daily routines and does things on autopilot is like driftwood floating in a river. Without intention or direction, the driftwood is subject to the forces around it, carried by the current without control over where it goes or when it stops.
You may pause for a while and reflect. With which could you be likened – to a pigeon or driftwood? Do you have specific daily routines that you perform religiously or start and end a day singing to the tune of “Que sera, sera”?
The word “routine” describes activities regularly performed. Routines can be personal or work-related and are done at the day’s beginning, during, and end. A routine may include behavior as typical as “waking up at the same time every morning” or as important as “going to work as scheduled.”
It can be argued that something you do repeatedly every day eventually becomes a habit, and thus, it ceases to be part of your routine.
At this juncture, clarifying the difference between routine and habit is necessary. The two are related but distinct concepts. Eyal (2014) argued that people want to turn everything into a habit without understanding the fundamental difference between a habit and a routine. He explained that habit is the impulse to do a behavior with little or no conscious thought, while routine is a series of behaviors frequently repeated [intentionally].
Eyal pointed out that most things people want to turn into habits will never become habits. Some routines can eventually become habits, but not every routine can become a habit.
The things you do daily can be deliberately set as parts of your daily routine or are habits you perform on autopilot. Those activities you intentionally or unknowingly do can benefit or harm your well-being. The ones you do routinely (and not habitually) are the ones that will move your SH2W needle.
Duncan (2022) explained that a daily routine is simply a collection of habits you do daily. He added that you likely have a series of daily routines you aren’t fully aware of—for example, things you do automatically when getting ready in the morning, starting your workday, or winding down in the evenings. He argues that making activities intentional means shutting off autopilot and consciously creating daily habits that increase productivity and generate happiness. Making routine intentional is also eliminating the habits that stand in our way.
A habit is an automatic behavior triggered by specific cues and usually performed without much conscious thought. Milkman (2021) explains that habits are like shortcuts—they’re things we can do quickly and without thinking because we’ve done them so often that they’ve become automatic. Routine, on the other hand, refers to a sequence of actions regularly followed, usually intentionally designed for specific times of the day. Routines are typically more deliberate and involve conscious planning.
As Milkman pointed out, a cue or trigger is often needed to remind us to start our habitual actions. For example, if you habitually brush your teeth after meals, you’ll likely do so automatically after finishing a meal. By contrast, a routine behavior is not connected to a specific cue. Following a routine, like going to the gym for a workout, requires conscious and deliberate effort—even discipline.
Habits form automatically over time, whether beneficial or detrimental, shaping your behavior often without conscious thought. There are good and bad habits. You must strive to retain positive habits and break negative ones. Self-awareness and discipline are crucial in helping you reinforce beneficial habits while working to eliminate harmful ones.
In contrast, a routine is generally designed to be beneficial, as it involves intentional planning and structure. People rarely, if not never, schedule activities that harm their well-being. You can incorporate positive habits into your routines to form a framework of beneficial behaviors that support pursuing your goals and overall quality of life.
As articulated in this discourse, a daily routine is a set of specific activities (including positive habits) scheduled at certain times of the day and performed in pursuit of one’s goals.
Your routines embody your goals and plans and are fueled by your whys. The things you do every day are supposedly tied to the goals you have set. Every move you make during your waking hours should be part of the plan you established to pursue those goals.
Setting routines indicates that you are controlling your destiny, unwilling to be dictated by the currents of fate—floating without a purpose, at the mercy of circumstances like driftwood. Establishing a daily routine is an effective way of managing time. It ensures that you do your daily activities as scheduled.
Organizing your activities sets clear intentions and indicates your seriousness about pursuing your dreams and ambitions. It is a hallmark of being purpose-driven. When we begin a day, we cannot afford to stay adrift, moving from task to task without any true purpose.
Routines are indeed driven by a purpose. We include an activity in our daily activities for specific reasons. We also add to our daily routine habits that we deem beneficial, which would contribute to attaining our goals.
Routines are beneficial in many ways. Csikszentmihalyi (2008) states, “When you establish a routine, your body and mind start to adapt, making it easier to slip into a deeply focused state known as ‘flow.’ Establishing a routine creates familiar cues that signal your brain to prepare for deep focus, enabling you to immerse yourself completely in an activity. Over time, this consistency allows you to transition smoothly into productivity without forcing it.
Choosing and sticking to your daily activities shapes your mood, shaping who you are (Murray et al., 2020). The activities you select each day influence your mood by setting the tone for how you feel and approach the world. Consistently engaging in positive, purposeful actions can foster a stable, uplifting mood, gradually shaping your habits, attitudes, and identity.
Daily routines also help you take control of your day and, subsequently, your life. They allow you to start your day, make better decisions, sleep better, enjoy quality time with loved ones, and have more time for activities you love (“Why Routines Are Good,” n.d.).
Having a daily routine will help you improve your focus and productivity. A list of specific activities at specific times of the day will allow you to concentrate on doing things one at a time and deliver the best possible results. Knowing what should be accomplished eliminates unwanted stress. Neuroscientists claim that when you set to do something, you are preparing your subconscious mind for the job, and doing it will no longer cause you to feel stressed.
The success, happiness, health, and wealth you want to achieve will not emerge from a stroke of luck or just sporadic bursts of effort. They will result from intentional daily routines—those small, often unnoticed actions that accumulate and compound over time. Take the example of daily reading in your field of expertise; it’s like a drop of water on a rock. Ovid once said, “Dripping water hollows out stone, not through force but through persistence.” The benefits of consistent reading—or any other habit you cultivate and include as activities in your daily routine—are impossible to predict now, but over time, they add up in ways you might never have imagined. Your daily routine shapes your life’s course when repeated with discipline and purpose.
Daily routines are usually divided into three parts – activities we do in the morning before performing our chosen profession/vocation, during the time that we perform that profession/vocation, and in the evening when we return home and before sleeping.
People have different morning rituals. Jim Kwik (2020) recommends his ideal morning routine – recall your dreams, make the bed, drink water and take supplements, breathe, meditate, move [exercise], take a cold shower, nourish your brain, journal, create a to-do list, a to-be-list, and a to-feel list, read, make a brain smoothie, do brain training, and start with your most difficult and most important task.
Which ones of Jim Kwik’s recommendation are you actually doing?
Bokhari (n.d.) argued that a healthy morning routine has four core components: physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual. He considers those four as the sources of energy that each of us is born with. You must unleash your physical energy and activate your body to prime it for a successful day. Learning something new or doing at least one thing each morning is essential to sharpen your mind. He suggests addressing your emotional and social needs by checking in with yourself, connecting with people you care about, and unleashing your spiritual energy by doing something that allows you to reconnect to your purpose, faith, or WHY.
During the day, your work or business takes a considerable chunk of your daily routine. A daily work routine is a set of behaviors aimed at achieving and accomplishing tasks most efficiently when practiced daily. A pattern of habits, activities, and behaviors governs how an individual plans a task schedule and decides which task should be done at what time (“Five Steps in Daily Work Routine,” n.d.)
Experts recommend taking breaks during work hours to boost productivity, maintain high levels of focus, and prevent burnout. The “Pomodoro Technique” is an effective way of doing this. The technique requires work intervals (e.g., 25 minutes of focused work followed by a 5-minute break).
The pursuit of your evening routine commences when you go home from work (or when you stop working). An ideal evening routine helps you wind down, reflect on the day, and prepare for the next one. The goal is to relax your body, declutter your mind, and prepare for a restful sleep.
Studies conducted on daily routine recommend the following to-do list for an evening routine: unplug and disconnect, reflect on the day and practice gratitude, plan and set intentions for tomorrow, engage in relaxing activities, practice personal hygiene and self-care, set up a sleep-friendly environment, and practice relaxation techniques or visualization.
Instead of spending long hours using gadgets, you might consider dedicating time to other activities, such as reading, journaling, or meditating.
A carefully planned daily routine is required to live a purposive life. It makes every action you take intentional and geared towards achieving your goals. Starting your day with morning rituals that will invigorate you the whole day ensures that you will work productively and get your desired results. Ending the days right is just as important. Thus, your evening rituals should not only be spent for further self-improvement but must allow you to recharge and get ready for the next day. Consciously choosing the activities for your daily routine is a manifestation of purposiveness. It indicates the desire not to live your life on autopilot. Establishing an organized set of activities is veering away from merely going through the motions of life.
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You can see the references in the following link…
The Pursuit of Well-Being (Part 2)
A holistic approach to well-being also requires embracing lifelong learning. The primary component of intellectual well-being is the desire to continuously learn and perpetually crave new ideas. Those strong in this dimension possess a sense of curiosity and the desire to develop their critical thinking and creative abilities.
On its website, dedicated to promoting well-being, the University of Virginia refers to intellectual well-being as the ability to open one’s mind to new ideas and experiences that can be applied to personal decisions, group interaction, and community betterment. It added that it also involves using one’s mental abilities meaningfully and feeling satisfied and proud of one’s educational and intellectual journey.
Awareness about how you learn and study best is vital to enhancing your intellectual well-being. You can foster this by challenging yourself and not allowing self-limiting beliefs. You will encounter setbacks and failures along the way, but treat them as opportunities for growth and development.
People with enhanced intellectual well-being are lifelong learners. Talerico (n.d.) states that they are interested in pursuing personal and professional development, such as picking up a hobby, studying a subject, learning a language, taking a vocational course, playing a sport, and joining a club. She also enumerated the benefits of lifelong learning: job security, career options, renewed motivation, stronger soft skills, better cognitive health, confidence, and networking opportunities.
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In addition to physical and mental well-being, the World Health Organization (WHO) considers social well-being an important dimension of overall health (Salehi et al., 2017). They identified five key domains of this dimension: social integration, social acceptance, social contribution, social actualization, and social coherence. Social wellness, or the lack of it, can significantly impact overall well-being.
Enhancing your social well-being requires building strong relationships and participating in community activities. You must cultivate positive and healthy relationships with family, friends, and colleagues. Volunteering in activities organized by your community is also an excellent way to establish new connections. Staying connected with the people in your life will help you enhance your health’s social and emotional aspects. Keep in mind that effective communication is essential in the process of establishing connections.
STRIDE (n.d.) explained that social wellness is achieved when one can create and maintain healthy, reciprocal relationships with the people around one. Positive social relationships can provide comfort and support in difficult times, increasing one’s resilience and ability to cope with life’s challenges.
It is not difficult to set a goal for social well-being. You can begin by regularly contacting friends, joining a group of people with whom you share common interests, or volunteering at community organizations that promote your advocacy.
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The quest for holistic well-being also involves engaging in activities that provide a feeling of purpose or productivity. At a certain point in your life, you will want a job or work where you can apply the knowledge and skills you acquired or developed. You may either apply for a job or be self-employed (or run an enterprise of your own) in your chosen field. When you finally settle into any kind of work, another dimension of your well-being is activated: your occupational well-being.
Occupational well-being is about pursuing a career that gives you a sense of purpose and fulfillment. It involves recognizing your talents and skills while seeking opportunities for personal satisfaction and growth through your work and pursuing a hobby or interest.
Sometimes, instead of contributing to overall health, having work becomes a source of stress. Instead of finding joy through it, work becomes a source of depression. Oakland University (n.d.) stressed that occupational well-being also involves achieving a healthy work-life balance, managing workplace stress, and building relationships with bosses and coworkers while integrating the commitment to your occupation into a satisfying and rewarding lifestyle. It may not be easy, but the only way to achieve occupational well-being is to learn the art of juggling your personal life and career.
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The occupational facet is directly tied to another dimension of well-being–financial well-being. Finding a job or pursuing a hobby or interest is done for self-fulfillment and financial stability. It can serve both purposes. The occupation that awaits you there will provide you the economic resources you must have for your basic needs and those beyond basic (healthcare, self-care, education, recreation, and what-have-you).
The CFPB (2015) defined financial well-being as a state of being wherein a person can fully meet current and ongoing financial problems, feel secure in their financial features, and make choices that allow enjoyment of life. The report added that the concept of financial well-being has four central elements: Having control over day-to-day and month-to-month finances, having the capacity to absorb a financial shock, being on track to meet your financial goals, and having the financial freedom to make the choices that allow you to enjoy life. For Kempson & Poppe (2017), this dimension of well-being refers to how individuals can comfortably meet their current commitments and needs and have financial resilience to maintain this ability.
Individual differences also affect how people determine the financial resources needed to cover necessities, settle obligations, handle emergency expenses, and fund recreational activities. A person’s level of materialism and practicality will influence the amount of money they require to achieve financial well-being.
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In the pursuit of overall well-being, we establish and nurture relationships with our fellow human beings, the social institutions we belong to, and our surroundings. You must preserve not only your personal relationships but also the environment. Your awareness of environmental issues, attitudes toward climate change, and willingness to adopt sustainable practices indicate your level of environmental well-being.
BU (n.d.) explains that environmental well-being involves valuing the relationship between ourselves, the spaces we live and work in, and the planet. It requires noticing and understanding how our surroundings impact our thoughts and feelings and how our actions affect the environment. This awareness enables us to make decisions promoting sustainability and respecting our community. According to STRIDE (n.d.), your sense of safety, comfort, and connection with your physical surroundings is called environmental well-being. It entails considering how your surroundings, community, and self interact.
While we may be at the top of the food chain due to our superior intelligence and the technology we have created, we must respect all of nature and the animals that inhabit it. This respect is the foundation of environmental well-being and fosters our environmental consciousness and conscientiousness. Such conscientiousness leads us to take on the role of a good steward of God’s creation rather than its destroyer.
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As previously articulated, Swarbrick maintains that all the dimensions of well-being are equally relevant and interdependent. However, if there’s one aspect that strongly affects all the others, it’s the spiritual dimension. While the journey toward overall wellness often begins with physical health, spiritual well-being provides a deeper sense of purpose and meaning, helping to sustain and balance the other dimensions.
The spiritual dimension is the foundation in your quest to achieve overall well-being. It will guide you through challenges and contribute to your emotional, mental, and social stability. Your spiritual inclinations will serve as the guiding force shaping your thoughts, behaviors, and attitudes in every dimension of well-being.
Najarkolaei et al. (2019) explained that spiritual well-being is a unique source that coordinates physical, mental, and social dimensions, and it is characterized by stability in life, peace, adjustment, and harmony, a sense of close relationship with oneself, God, society, and the environment.
Spirituality has a strong positive influence on the way people live. Those whose spiritual well-being is robust are better equipped to deal with difficulties and challenges in life. Faith in the existence of God gives hope when the chips are down, and assurance that helps is on the way. Puchalski (2001) mentioned that some studies indicate that spiritual people tend to have a more positive outlook and a better quality of life. This assertion was supported by the findings of the analysis performed by Casanova et al. (2023). They found a significant correlation between spiritual beliefs and hope/optimism, indicating the positive influence of spirituality on emotional well-being. Additionally, spirituality is positively associated with autonomy, highlighting its role in fostering independence in later life. They also explained that spirituality is both a coping mechanism and a source of purpose and meaning in life.
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With all the dimensions of well-being—physical, emotional, social, intellectual, occupational, financial, environmental, and spiritual—collectively contributing to holistic well-being, neglecting any one of them will adversely affect your journey toward living a balanced
The Pursuit of Well-Being (Part 1)
“Wellness is the complete integration of body, mind, and spirit – the realization
that everything we do, think, feel, and believe has an effect
on our state of well-being.”
~ Greg Anderson ~
To most people, being healthy is seemingly inconsequential–not a big deal. It’s not considered an achievement worthy of praise and deserving of a spot on social media. As someone once quipped, “Being healthy is a success that many people forget to celebrate.” They don’t consider not being stricken by any kind of disease or burdened by stress and anxiety a victory–a huge blessing that they should thank God for (if they believe He exists).
Virgil’s assertion that the greatest wealth is health is often disregarded. Only when we get sick and bedridden do we start to pay attention to our health or well-being. In some instances, we only do so when it’s too late, and the condition is already either difficult to reverse or not reversible at all.
Let’s not forget that pursuing your personal and professional endeavors is difficult if you’re not healthy—mind, body, and soul. Nurture your well-being before you can embark on a journey towards achieving your dreams and ambitions.
The Oxford Dictionary defines well-being as the “state of being comfortable, healthy, or happy (Oxford, n.d.). Merriam-Webster defines the construct in almost the same way except that instead of “comfortable,” it uses “prosperous” as an adjective used to explain the construct further. As Purcell (2018) explained, this concept embraces more than just physical health. It considers the entire person, both body and mind [and more]. It indicates not just the absence of illness but also the presence of positive mental states, emotions, and moods.”
Ruggeri et al. (2020) gave a more comprehensive definition of well-being. They explained that well-being is the combination of feeling good and functioning well, experiencing positive emotions such as happiness and contentment, developing one’s potential, having some control of everyone’s life, having a sense of purpose, and experiencing positive relationships. This shows that well-being goes beyond the pursuit of a healthy body. It encompasses various aspects of a person’s life, including physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, and social. A person is a physical, emotional, mental, and a spiritual being.
Engaging in activities that promote wellness can nurture well-being. Good wellness habits can contribute to a sense of well-being. This article will delve into the various wellness activities that can lead to well-being.
Wellness is the active pursuit of activities, choices, and lifestyles that lead to holistic health (Wellness Defined, n.d.). The enhancement of one’s overall well-being is the ultimate goal of engaging in activities that promote wellness.
Swarbrick (2012) explained that wellness is a conscious, deliberate process that requires a person to become aware of and make choices for a more satisfying lifestyle. She proposed a model that has been used to craft a practical framework for the pursuit of overall health. Her ‘wellness model’ (see Figure 1) is considered the gold standard for a comprehensive well-being program. Well-being programs found on the Internet have adopted this program in one way or another, wholly or in part.
Figure 1 – Eight Dimensions of Well-Being
The model illustrates the different dimensions interlocked in circles to demonstrate their connection and interdependence. Swarbrick proposed that wellness should be approached holistically. You should not focus solely on specific dimensions while neglecting others. A meaningful wellness program aimed at maximizing your overall well-being requires that each dimension be given due consideration. You need to become familiar with each dimension and give them proper attention.
The definitions/explanations of each dimension shown in Table 1 were compiled by the University of Pittsburg on its website, which caters to well-being.
While all eight dimensions are equally important and should receive proper attention, overall well-being should begin with the physical aspect—by taking good care of your body. You must be strong and healthy before pursuing your dreams and ambitions. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep are the usual advice to achieve physical well-being. It would behoove you to also take regular check-ups and preventive care.
Mahindru et al. (2023) asserted that physical activity also positively affects mental health in addition to the apparent physical health benefits. They mentioned specifically that consistent physical activity may also significantly improve sleep quality. The researchers cautioned that physically inactive individuals have been reported to have higher rates of morbidity and healthcare expenditures. Taking good care of your physical well-being also requires avoiding alcohol, cigarettes, or cigars and using prohibited drugs. Government and health authorities issue warnings against these substances, but surprisingly, there are no high-profile precautions against sugar, another substance that, when abused, will cause illnesses. Just like smoking, excessive sugar consumption leads to debilitating diseases like diabetes, obesity, and heart disease. So, if you genuinely care about the physical aspect of your well-being, be sure to include sugar in the list of substances to avoid.
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Emotional wellness has been proven to be directly tied to physical health. When you experience tremendous stress and negative emotions and fail to overcome them, you are bound to develop health problems. You need to develop techniques to manage stress. You probably have often heard how mindfulness practices and meditation help reduce stress and enhance focus.
Mental health professionals suggest staying connected with people in our lives to safeguard our emotional and mental well-being. They also recommend striking a balance between life and work. Thus, you must leave your work in the office so you will have fun and enjoy yourself when you’re with your family and friends. Additionally, cultivating a positive mindset and practicing gratitude are essential. Most importantly, do not hesitate to seek professional help when necessary.
The activities or things you can do to nurture your emotional well-being include exercising, eating well, and getting good sleep. In addition, the CDC (n.d.) offered tips to improve the emotional aspects of your well-being. You get outside to take a nature walk or a city hike. Be active, too. Take a dance break. You can also go to the gym to lift weights or do push-ups or sit-ups. You can also channel your energy into quick cleaning or spending an hour at home. You may also practice relaxation techniques. You can close your eyes, take deep breaths, stretch, do yoga, or meditate. In addition, they suggested that you embrace self-care, check it with yourself, practice gratitude, laugh, consider a new hobby, find an inspiring song or quote, maintain or build your social network, and connect with your faith through prayer or reach out to a member of your faith community.
The Pursuit Of Lifelong/Lifewide Learning
““The key to success is dedication to lifelong learning.”
~ S.R. Covey ~
Jim Rohn had a very unique perspective on success. He said it is not to be pursued but instead attracted by the person you become. He probably meant that success is like a fruit and you are a fruit-bearing tree. How long does it take before a tree bears fruit from the day its seed is planted? Not overnight, not a week or two, not even months, but years. A tree has to grow and mature before it can bear fruit. You must grow, mature, and attain your full potential like a tree. Focus on becoming a sturdy, full-grown tree; the fruits naturally come out of your branches when the proper time comes.
When you become the best you, success comes knocking at your door. However, reaching your full potential or becoming the best you is a long and arduous process. It requires continuous striving, an unending quest for learning. Succeeding requires becoming better every day. As S.R. Covey asserts, “The key to success is dedication to lifelong learning.”
Lifelong learning kicks off when a person starts breathing until their last breath. This means that learning is a continuous process that begins as a newborn infant and progresses throughout your life. Learning doesn’t stop when you’re done schooling. A graduation ceremony is called a commencement exercise because it marks the beginning of a new chapter in a person’s life. The graduate can decide to work or pursue further education. They may do both – work and study again. The world is changing rapidly, with industries improving fast due to technology continuously evolving. That evolution even became faster with the rise of Artificial Intelligence. To keep pace and stay relevant, it is necessary that you constantly learn and embrace changes. You need to adapt and go with the flow of innovation lest you risk becoming obsolete with outdated knowledge, skills, and values.
Lifelong learning is often misconstrued as “lifelong schooling.” It draws a negative subjective feeling to some. Perhaps it conjures up in their minds the image of an inmate serving a lifelong sentence in jail. However, the term should not be misunderstood to mean going to school until all your hair is gray and all your bones are brittle, although I believe there is nothing wrong if one wants to be a perennial student. It is perhaps the negative connotations that the term “lifelong learning” draws that lead to the birth of a similar concept, “lifewide learning.”
Lifewide learning refers to learning in various settings, including formal, informal, and non-formal, and occurs in spaces the learner simultaneously inhabits – work, school, home, etc. Barnett (2010) clarifies that if lifelong learning occupies different spaces through the lifespan – ‘from the cradle to the grave’ – lifewide learning is learning in different spacers simultaneously. The former runs vertically, while the latter runs horizontally.
Introducing “lifewide learning” doesn’t imply that “lifelong learning” is erroneous. Skolverket (2000) explained that the “lifelong” dimension is non-problematic. What is essential is that the individual learns throughout life. He clarified that the “lifewide” dimension refers to learning in various environments and situations and is not only confined to the formal education system. Ates & Alsal (2012) explained that lifelong learning is lifewide, voluntary, and self-motivated pursuit for personal and professional reasons. They argued that it enhances social inclusion, active citizenship, and individual development and increases competitiveness and employability.
Whichever is used to describe learning, lifelong or lifewide, it is an activity that contributes to your personal growth and development. Even if lifelong learning and lifewide learning are to be viewed separately in the context of how they are technically defined, their objectives are the same – to help you achieve your full potential and become the best you.
Schuller et al. (2007) argue that learning does not occur just in school – it is both lifewide (occurring in multiple contexts, such as work, at home and in our social lives) and lifelong (starting from the cradle to the grave). These different types of learning affect each other in various ways. Their impact in terms of the outcomes of learning is equally complex – whether it is in the economic and social spheres, the individual and collective, the monetary and the non-monetary.
Embarking into lifelong/lifewide learning (or continuous learning) is obviously a worthwhile endeavor. The benefits you get from it are aplenty.
Continuous learning leads to acquiring new (or additional) knowledge and skills needed to become a productive person and a competent professional. Not stopping to learn will prevent you from becoming irrelevant in your chosen field. Remember that changes are inevitable. Those who refuse to innovate and update their competencies will find themselves jobless or bankrupt. Conversely, those who actively engage in continuous learning, as Mascle (2007) reiterated, will have a better chance of getting a fatter paycheck. He added that job promotions go to smart people who keep up with the latest innovations in information and technology. Tamborini et al. (2015) revealed that men and women can expect to earn 655,000 US$ and 455,000 US$ more during their careers with a bachelor’s degree than with a high school degree, and graduate degrees yield further gains.
If you keep learning, it will also broaden your perspectives leading you to make well-informed decisions. You will gain a better understanding of how things work and how things are done. The new skills you acquire through continuous learning will boost your problem-solving abilities and critical thinking. It will allow you to look at issues more judiciously and prevent you from saying or doing anything mindlessly. Nordstrom (2006) even contend that it increases wisdom. Continuous learning will allow you to put your life in perspective, increase your understanding of previous successes and failures, and help you understand yourself better. He added that learning continuously will help you fully develop your natural abilities.
Continuous learning is also beneficial to your well-being. The mere reading you do while pursuing lifelong/lifewide learning will keep your brain active. Brain experts ascertained that continuous learning helps improve cognitive functions and prevent brain diseases like dementia and cognitive decline. The more frequently the brain is used, the better, especially when you grow older. Additionally, acquiring new knowledge and skills will give you a sense of self-worth and boost your self-esteem and confidence. You can also read a lot of health-related materials that will inspire you to live a healthy and stress-free life. If you learn about the importance of meditation, a nutritious diet, and regular exercise, you could be motivated to try them. Cutler & Lleras-Muney (2006) even explored the relationship between longevity and education. They revealed that the better educated have healthier behaviors along virtually every margin, although some may also reflect differential access to care.
There are many reasons to continue learning and the collective weight of the evidence presented in many studies on the subject indicate that lifelong/lifewide learning is essential in an individual’s quest to attain full potential. The only way to becoming the best you is through lifelong/lifewide learning.
However, the journey to continuous learning can be challenging and troublesome. Different kinds of barriers, whether imposed by circumstances or self-imposed, can hinder your path.
Topping the list of reasons for the inability of some people to continue learning is their busy schedule. They reason that juggling work (or business), family, and other responsibilities is tricky and consumes a lot of their time. More is needed for personal growth and development activities. But if you embrace the idea that a better self leads to a better life, you must prioritize self-improvement. It would help if you allocated time to pursue lifelong/lifeward learning and consider it not an extra burden but rather an investment.
Aside from time constraint, financial limitations can be a significant barrier also in the pursuit of continuous learning. Enrolling to degree or certificate courses or attending seminars for further studies and career advancement come with a cost. But as I said previously, self-improvement is an investment. If you want to attain your full potential, you must be willing to pay the price. Success will not be served to you in a silver platter.
There are other kinds of constraints like unavailability of learning materials. There are still some parts of the world that are undeveloped. Attaining personal growth and development is more challenging to people who live in those areas where internet connectivity and resources in libraries are limited (or worse – no libraries at all).
The foregoing are only few of the circumstances that can hinder continuous learning. But take it from George Herbert who said: “To him that will , ways are not wanting.” If you are strongly motivated and committed to succeed, you will do whatever it takes for that to happen.
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Ates, Haydar & Alsal, Kadir. (2012). The Importance of Lifelong Learning has been Increasing. Procedia – Social and Behavioral Sciences. 46. 4092-4096. 10.1016/j.sbspro.2012.06.205.
Barnett, Ronald. (2011). Lifewide education: a new and transformative concept for higher education? http://lifewideeducation.co.uk/.
Cutler, David & Lleras-Muney, Adriana. (2006). Education and Health: Evaluating Theories and Evidence. Making Americans Healthier: Social and Economic Policy as Health Policy. 12352. 10.3386/w12352.
Mascle, D. (2007, Mar. 27). No Adult Left Behind: 5 Big Benefits of Lifelong Learning. Article Alley, UK. http://deannamascle.articlealley.com/no-adult-left-behind-5-big-benefits-of-lifelong-learning-139607.htm
Nordstrom, N. M. & Merz, J. F. (2006). Learning later, living greater; the secret for making the most of your after-50 years. Colorado; USA, Sentient Boulder CO Publishing.
Schuller, Tom; Desjardins, Richard (2007). Understanding the Social Outcomes of Learning (PDF) (Report). OECD. http://ul.fcpe.rueil.free.fr/IMG/pdf/9607061E.pdf.
Skolverket. 2000. “Lifelong Learning and Lifewide Learning.” Stockholm:The National Agency for Education.
Tamborini CR, Kim C, Sakamoto A. Education and Lifetime Earnings in the United States. Demography. 2015 Aug;52(4):1383-407. doi: 10.1007/s13524-015-0407-0. PMID: 26100983; PMCID: PMC4534330.
The Crucial Connection Between Goal Setting and Planning
“Our goals can only be reached through a vehicle of plan, in which we
must fervently believe and upon which we must vigorously
act. There is no other route to success.”
– Pablo Picasso
In discussions of the term “goal,” it is difficult not to mention “plan” alongside it. These two constructs are seemingly conjoined like Siamese twins. Even in their definitions, goals and plans are intertwined: a goal is defined as the end toward which an effort is directed, while a plan is a method for achieving that end. When goals and plans are perfectly aligned, they create a synergy that leads to success. Thus, goal-setting and planning are critical for personal growth and development. Those who embrace self-improvement must prioritize these two essential practices.
Locke and Latham (2002) describe a goal as an idea of the future or desired result that a person or a group of people envisions, plans for, and commits to achieving. Goals are the object or aim of an action, such as attaining a specific standard of proficiency, typically within a specified time frame. In contrast, a plan is defined as “a set of actions that have been thought of as a way to do or achieve something” (Britannica, n.d.). Both goals and plans often come with deadlines, underscoring their interconnectedness.
Goal setting is the process of defining goals, and planning identifies the actions necessary to achieve those goals effectively. In reality, goal-setting and planning are inseparable. Setting goals without corresponding plans or making plans without anchoring them to specific goals is futile. Goals without a plan are like knowing where you want to go without knowing how to get there while planning without an identified goal is like setting out on a journey without a specific destination. Goal setting is the first step in the planning process; once you have established your desired goals, you can create a plan to achieve them. Planning, in turn, creates a roadmap that guides you toward achieving your goals.
To further illustrate the relationship between goal-setting and planning, we can examine the goal-plan paradigm developed by Simon Sinek, known as the Golden Circle Model. This model effectively represents the connections between these constructs and highlights their significance. The Golden Circle consists of three layers: “Why” at the core, “How” in the middle layer, and “What” at the outermost part. This paradigm emphasizes the importance of identifying the underlying purpose (“Why”) before establishing the process (“How”) and the outcome (“What”).
In this model, the “Why” represents the goal—the purpose or desired outcome that forms the basis for all actions. The “How” corresponds to the plan and the organized efforts necessary to reach the goal. Finally, the “What” represents the specific outcomes or results from carefully executing the goals and plans. Although the terms “Why” and “What” might seem interchangeable, Sinek clarifies that the “Why” refers to the underlying purpose or reason for wanting to achieve an outcome. In contrast, the “What” refers to the tangible results.
Sinek strongly argues that understanding the “Why” is crucial, particularly at the organizational level. Most organizations and leaders know what they do and how they do it, but they often struggle to articulate why they do it. The “Why” is vital because it inspires and motivates leaders and followers. This insight also applies to individuals: the “Why,” or the goal, is the source of passion and commitment, providing a definite direction for organizations and individuals.
To illustrate his assertions, Sinek’s example was Apple’s Why, How, and What.
This example demonstrates that an organization’s “What”—the products or services it offers—is not the goal itself but rather the outcome of an apparent “Why.”
Setting goals and making plans are crucial to achieving success in both personal and professional realms. As Berkman (2018) explained, “Setting goals is easy; achieving them is hard.” While achieving goals may be challenging, it is not impossible. Effective planning makes goal achievement possible.
You have probably heard about SMART goals already. Goal setting involves defining specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound objectives that individuals or organizations want to achieve. This is the golden rule of goal-setting.
When goals are specific, it means they are clear. They answer the questions of who, what, where, when, and why. Making the goals measurable means their progress can be tracked. Several other clear indicators are involved. Achievable goals are realistic and attainable given your current situation, resources, and time, while relevant goals are worthwhile or worth pursuing. Their purpose is clear. Time-bound means a specific deadline or timeframe for achieving the goal.
Chowdhury (2019) mentioned that researchers have made the “SMART” rule “SMARTER.” The letters E and R are appended to SMART, with the E standing for evaluative or ethical and R rewarding. He explained that interventions and executing ethical goals follow professional and personal ethics. Rewarding means that the results or goal setting brings the user a positive reward and a feeling of accomplishment.
By using the SMART/SMARTER framework, individuals and organizations can rest assured that their goals are well-defined, making it easier to plan, execute, and achieve them successfully.
After setting goals comes planning. As Antoine de Saint-Exupery says, “A goal without a plan is just a wish.” Without a plan, even the best goals will not come to fruition.
The activities required to achieve desired goals must be identified and organized. The planning process involves drawing a specific course of action that identifies what needs to be done, when, how, and by whom.
A good plan provides a clear roadmap. It helps simplify complex tasks and make them more manageable. It also promotes efficient use of the M resources—manpower, machinery, materials, and money. Planning enables you to foresee what resources are needed and when. It ensures that your decisions are aligned with the goals, reducing the likelihood of making decisions impulsively.
The best part of indulging in planning is that it helps you achieve work-life balance. It allows you to pursue your professional and personal endeavors without sacrificing one over the other.
The interplay between goal setting and planning is fundamental in pursuing success in both personal and professional Endeavors. Goals provide the direction, the “Why,” while plans provide the roadmap, the “How.” The synergy they create ensures that the “What”—the tangible outcomes—is achieved efficiently and effectively. When goal-setting and planning are done correctly, they transform dreams into reality and make success not just possible but inevitable.
Achieving Work-Life Balance: Strategies For Success
“You will never feel truly satisfied by work
until you are satisfied by life.”
– Heather Schuck
In this discourse, “work” refers to the professional responsibilities we either choose to embrace or are assigned, while “life” encompasses our personal existence, including inherent responsibilities and commitments we make. Achieving work-life balance is about finding equilibrium between our professional and personal endeavors, ensuring that neither is neglected at the expense of the other.
For many of us, our work or profession is a significant source of happiness and fulfillment. We derive satisfaction from applying the knowledge we’ve acquired and the skills we’ve honed through education and self-study. This sense of accomplishment, however, should not overshadow the importance of maintaining a balanced life.
Malik (2023) defines work-life balance as “the stability between the time, energy, and attention individuals allocate to their professional commitments and personal lives, including their family, social activities, hobbies, and personal well-being. It emphasizes the need to achieve a harmonious and satisfying integration of both work and personal aspects of life.”
Striking a balance between professional obligations and social responsibilities is easier said than done. It is far from a simple task, as giving equal attention to both areas of life can be challenging. Work demands can sometimes be overwhelming, leaving little time for self-care and nurturing relationships. Conversely, some individuals may prioritize personal and family matters at the expense of their workplace productivity, leading to a lack of fulfillment in their professional lives.
Achieving work-life balance is an essential skill for personal development. While it may be difficult, maintaining equilibrium between work and personal life is crucial for creating an environment conducive to growth and well-being.
When individuals learn to balance their professional and personal lives, they experience significant benefits. They can engage in self-improvement activities, such as furthering their education, learning new skills, and pursuing fulfilling hobbies. This balance also leads to better health, as reduced stress allows for engagement in activities that promote physical and mental well-being.
Moreover, a well-balanced work-life enhances productivity, creativity, and problem-solving abilities. A clear focus and improved concentration naturally follow when one’s life is in harmony.
Perhaps the most valuable outcome of achieving work-life balance is improving personal relationships. Spending more time with loved ones and friends strengthens these bonds, fulfilling our intrinsic need for social interaction. As social beings, meaningful connections are vital to our happiness and well-being.
The significance of balancing work obligations and personal life makes some consider achieving it not a matter of choice but a mandatory requirement in the pursuit of success.
The importance of balancing work obligations with personal life has led many to view achieving this equilibrium not as a choice but as a mandatory requirement for success.
Work-life balance is pursued at both the organizational and individual levels. However, maintaining this balance between the demands of a job or profession and personal obligations is largely a personal responsibility. In the workplace, managers aim to eliminate factors that could reduce organizational productivity. Whiting (2024) defines work-life balance as “the amount of time you spend working compared to the time you spend pursuing activities outside of work, measured in hours, enjoyment, or mental energy.” She adds, “Your work-life balance depends not only on the time you spend physically at work but also on the energy, focus, and attention that work demands even when you’re not in the office.”
Organizations clearly benefit when they implement programs that promote work-life balance. Whiting (2024), citing studies she reviewed, notes that employees who experience a balanced approach to work and personal concerns are more engaged. This heightened engagement improves the working conditions and profitability of the organization. She also emphasizes that work-life balance within organizations results in more engaged employees and helps prevent potential burnout, which can lead to poor health, decreased performance, and a toxic work culture.
The absence of work-life balance in the workplace can result in burnout and neglect of physical health, which may lead to severe health conditions. When employees lack time to recharge, they return to work less focused and less motivated, which reduces their productivity and creativity. Their decision-making skills are also compromised, leading to suboptimal choices and outcomes.
It is evident that work-life balance significantly influences employee performance. Naithani (2010) found that employees with poor work-life balance suffer from reduced productivity and lower job performance. In contrast, Roberts (2008) emphasized that employees with a healthy work-life balance show improved job performance. The findings of a study conducted by Susanto et al. (2022) confirmed the positive relationship between work-life balance and job performance, concluding that as an employee’s work-life balance improves, so does their job performance.
Employees are fortunate if they work in organizations where leaders recognize the importance of promoting work-life balance. However, in some cases, managers may not prioritize formulating policies that create a work environment where employees can fulfill their personal commitments without sacrificing their organizational duties. In such situations, it becomes the employees’ responsibility to find a way to strike a balance between their work and personal lives. Ultimately, work-life balance can and should be achieved at the individual level.
There are telltale signs of poor work-life balance or its complete absence. The most common indicators include burnout and difficulty sleeping. Those who fail to balance their professional and personal lives often feel like they are always working, unable to relax. This constant stress can lead to strained relationships with family and friends. If you experience these symptoms, it’s crucial to reassess your work-life balance.
The steps to achieve work-life balance are practical and straightforward, but the challenge lies in the willingness and determination to implement them. Experts suggest that the pursuit of work-life balance begins with setting clear priorities. It is essential to identify your top priorities in both your personal and professional life, which will allow you to allocate your time and energy appropriately. Drawing clear boundaries between work and personal life is vital.
Work hours should not encroach upon the time allocated for family, hobbies, and relaxation. For those committed to maintaining this boundary, disconnecting from the internet and keeping gadgets out of reach after work is vital. Emails and calls should be restricted to work hours, ensuring that personal time remains sacred.
Another critical component is spending quality time with family. It’s not about the quantity of time but the quality of the interactions. Disconnecting from technology and being fully present is the first step toward giving your loved ones the attention they deserve. Taking a break from social media when spending time with the family is also essential.
Equally important is allocating time for yourself. Your overall well-being should be a priority because success in your professional endeavors is meaningless if it comes at the cost of your health. It is possible to be both wealthy and healthy. Taking care of yourself involves regular exercise, maintaining a balanced diet, and ensuring sufficient sleep. Additionally, pursuing hobbies and engaging in activities you enjoy and contribute to your personal growth will further enhance your well-being.
Achieving a work-life balance is a desirable and essential component of a fulfilling life. The equilibrium between professional and personal commitments is crucial for maintaining physical and mental well-being. When this balance is neglected, the consequences can be severe, affecting not only individual health and relationships but also organizational productivity and culture.
Both organizations and individuals have roles to play in fostering work-life balance. While companies can implement supportive policies and create environments promoting well-being, it ultimately falls on each person to take responsibility for their balance. By setting clear priorities, drawing firm boundaries, and dedicating time to loved ones and personal care, individuals can navigate the challenges of modern life without sacrificing their health or happiness.
In essence, work-life balance is the foundation of a successful and meaningful life. It allows us to thrive in our careers while nurturing our personal relationships and well-being, leading to a more satisfying and well-rounded existence. Striving for this balance may be challenging, but the rewards are profound and far-reaching.
On How Important Effective Communication Is
“Good communication is the bridge between confusion and clarity.”
~ Nat Turner ~
We all agree that communication is very important, especially in this era when most of our decisions are data-driven. And I think only a few (or no one) would disagree that communication skills are difficult to develop. But no matter how arduous that task is, we must work hard to acquire them.
The ability to communicate effectively is a “must-possess” skill. If somebody says that it is a “superpower,” I wouldn’t disagree, for if you can communicate effectively, you have one of the most important tools needed to succeed in whatever endeavors and undertakings you undertake.
You and I should learn how to effectively convey our ideas and feelings and divulge our intentions properly. Lest we forget, though, that communication is a two-way process. It is not just a matter of us sending or encoding a message but being able to process the response or feedback being sent back to us. Or we could be at the receiving end of the process. This means we could be the receiver instead of being the sender.
In whatever role – processing feedback or receiving a message – we need to decipher or decode efficiently.
Communication is one of the few constructs that can be found in the vocabulary of different fields of study. The said concept is a fundamental aspect of major areas related to language and literature. It is an integral part of any field that requires information to be disseminated, such as in media, business, politics, health care, and education. Even in science and math. The said subjects may be technical in nature, but they require effective communication. Without it, scientists and mathematicians cannot disseminate the necessary information and knowledge to the general public.
I cannot recall any concept that serves most (if not all) fields of endeavors other than communication. Thus, the ability to communicate is included in the list of skills a person must develop. It is a vital component of any “self-improvement” model. It is hard to imagine a personal growth and development program that does not include improving communication skills.
Communication is simply the process of exchanging information or expressing one’s ideas, thoughts, or feelings to someone else using spoken or written words or any other medium. The process involves the interplay of the main elements of communication – sender, receiver, message, channel or medium, and feedback. The interaction of the above-mentioned components is affected also by other factors – context and interference or noise.
The communication process starts with the intention to send a message (the information to be conveyed). Others refer to the messages as the subject matter of communication. The sender initiates the process. They are the source of information or the one sending the message to a receiver using a particular channel or medium.
Channel is described as the path through which an encoded message is transmitted from a sender to a receiver. The message can be relayed through written or verbal (electronic or personal) means. Messages sent electronically may come either in audio or video formats. The receiver is tasked to understand or decipher the message they receive, after which they are expected to send feedback to complete the communication process.
Feedback is the receiver’s response to the message. Giving feedback reverses the communication process, where the receiver becomes the sender and vice-versa. When you communicate, you, as the sender, naturally expect a favorable response. For that to happen, you must ensure your message is clear and easy to understand. And your message will be easier to understand if you make it concise. You must deliver your message in the shortest (but complete) way possible. Clarity and conciseness are the hallmarks of an effective message. They help avoid ambiguity and confusion.
To ensure the success of the communication process, you also need to consider the factors that affect it. When the sender conveys the message and the receiver gives feedback, the environment or situation should be set to help the communication achieve its intended purpose. Dham (2023) explained how context and noise could disrupt the process of communication. He explained that the “context provides the backdrop against the communication. This includes the physical, social, psychological, and cultural environment in which the interaction occurs. Context influences how the message is interpreted and helps establish shared meanings between the sender and receiver. Noise, on the other hand, refers to any interference or distortion that affects the clarity of the message during the communication process. It can be external, such as background noise or technical glitches, or internal, such as language barriers, cultural differences, or emotional distractions. Minimizing noise is crucial to ensuring the message is accurately transmitted and received.”
Understanding how the process works is a prerequisite to effective communication. If you succeed in creating a synergy among the main elements of communication and are able to control the effects of the other factors, you will reap great dividends. It will enable you to deliver a message or convey information accurately and efficiently, ensuring mutual comprehension and avoiding misunderstanding.
Communicating effectively is as important as the other self-improvement skills you need to pursue success, happiness, and wealth. It is required when interacting with others in both professional and personal environments. Communicating effectively is an essential skill whose development you cannot take for granted. Through a good communication approach, effective and meaningful interactions can be effected.
Communication plays a fundamental role in both our professional endeavors and personal undertakings. Whatever those endeavors or undertakings may be, they all involve interpersonal relationships that can only be nurtured when we establish connections with other people.
On a personal level, we need to establish communication with our loved ones and friends. It helps build a stronger connection with them and resolve conflicts or disagreements. Effective communication is the foundation of successful friendships, including romantic relationships. It promotes intimacy, trust, and mutual understanding.
Any professional pursuits also require the development of the ability to communicate. You cannot find a job or succeed in business if you are incapable of self-expression. We have been told countless times that in order to succeed, we should be able to communicate.
In the workplace, effective communication plays a significant role. If you are a leader or manager of any enterprise, you must be ready to articulate the goals and objectives of the organization and make the members cooperate in their pursuit. The members should be provided with clear direction and motivation so they can all work together for the organization’s success. Teamwork and collaboration can be achieved through effective communication.
Even if you don’t like to work for any organization in the workplace and you’re planning to establish a business of your own or be a freelancer, you still need to develop the ability to communicate. Working alone, sometimes, means having to work harder. The business of selling products and services by yourself would require stronger efforts in persuading potential customers.
Effective communication is a prerequisite to any successful business endeavor, whether doing it with an organization or by yourself. Remember that it is also essential in the pursuit of happiness, for it helps build meaningful relationships.
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Dham, M. (2023). Elements of Communication Process. PrepBytes Blog. https://www.prepbytes. com/ blog /basics-of-communication/elements-of-communication-process/
M.A.D. LIGAYA
M.A.D. L I G A Y A 