“We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act but a habit,” wrote Aristotle. Not all habits produce excellence, however. What habits are holding you back? Are you watching too much TV? Are you spending too much time with people that are not in alignment with what is important to you? Have you been in the right job so long that it’s become the wrong job?
As we age, we can become so attached to our habits that it’s hard to see them clearly. We lose sight of whether they’re good for us or others. Even habits that were born from good ideas and intentions–like running–can turn bad over time. What began as a form of relaxation, mental recovery, and fitness might now be used to avoid work, family conflicts, or dealing with life’s little messes.
What are you repeatedly doing? Examine your habits. Do they lead toward excellence? If not, then maybe it’s time for a new habit.