The Remarkable Impact of Consistency
Today, as I celebrate my 41st birthday, I find myself reflecting on a lesson I’ve learned over the past year—a lesson that I believe holds the key to shaping our lives. It’s a lesson that I feel others have learned much earlier than I have, but I’m grateful to have gained the wisdom later rather than never. It’s a lesson about consistency.
Aristotle’s Wisdom: “We are what we repeatedly do”
Aristotle was quoted saying, “We are what we repeatedly do.” As I stand firmly in the middle of my life, I can’t help but realize how profoundly true this statement is. I am, without a doubt, the product of what I’ve consistently done over the years. In most cases, we all are.
For example, I play the guitar decently because I’ve strummed its strings on countless afternoons, over many weeks, months, and years. I can sing because I’ve belted out numerous songs, consistently honing my vocal skills over time. I’m not in great shape because I’ve neglected my fitness consistently over those same weeks, months, and years. I’ve also consumed many unhealthy meals and habits because I consistently made those choices.
The choices I’ve made yesterday and what today is made of.
Beyond Ourselves: The Wider Reach of Consistency
But it’s not just our personal lives that are affected by consistency. It’s everything around us—the conditions of our cars, our homes, our computers. All these aspects of our lives bear the consequences of our consistent actions or inactions.
The real power in understanding this concept lies in realizing that we have the ability to choose our consistent actions. We can decide to do things that align with who we want to become, and if we stick to them consistently, we will inevitably get closer to achieving our goals. It’s simple, but it’s not always easy.
The Millennial Paradox: Talent vs. Consistency
For many of us millennials and younger folks, we were raised with the notion that we are special and naturally talented. While this can be a boost to our self-esteem, it often lacked the crucial message that talent alone doesn’t guarantee success.
Unfortunately, in adulthood, many millennials are finding that there’s an abundance of special geniuses and a shortage of focused, hardworking, and committed people with the latter being what’s in demand.
To achieve our aspirations, we must put in the consistent effort.
A Personal Challenge: Coding Every Day
Recently, I challenged myself to code every day consistently for 100 days. I started with little knowledge about what I wanted to learn and with each passing day, I improved. Today, on my 41st birthday, I wrote a program—a countdown timer to my average life expectancy as an American male. That’s 76 years and I have somewhere near 35 years left to experience. As I watched the seconds of my life tick away, I couldn’t help but ponder the journey that brought me here and the road that lies ahead.
While I may not have as many years ahead as I once did, I’ve come to realize that with consistent effort, many of my dreams and goals are still within reach. Those dreams that form the foundation of a fulfilling life can be attained through unwavering dedication.
Turning 41 feels like a fresh chapter. It’s an opportunity to recommit to the things that truly matter, to acknowledge the power of consistency, and to embrace the journey ahead with enthusiasm.
Conclusion: Embrace the Power of Consistency
So, I encourage you, dear reader, no matter your age, to stick with the things you’re working on. Embrace consistency as your ally, and you’ll find yourself drawing closer to your aspirations with each passing day. Remember, greatness is achieved one consistent step at a time.
Dream big, work consistently, and let your life be a testament to the power of unwavering dedication.
Wishing you consistency and success on your unique journey,
-Ryan
