Why I start strong, but lose focus halfway!

Does this sound familiar?

You get fixated on a goal: a fitter body, better relationships, or new skills. You join a gym, buy a self-help course, or start learning an instrument. For about 10 days, you’re on fire, giving it your all. Then, little by little, you start skipping—first a day here, then another. Soon, the gym membership is forgotten, the course is unfinished, and the instrument is gathering dust. And the cycle begins again.

This happens to many of us, including me. Our inconsistency is frustrating because we know that consistency is key to progress, but somehow, we falter. The one thing we do consistently? Start and stop before seeing results.

You may beat yourself up over this, but there’s hope. First, understand why this cycle happens, then work to fix it.

The reason? You’re focused on the outcome, not the process. While the goal is important, the journey matters more. Why? Any worthwhile goal requires long-term effort and sacrifice, and without the right processes, we lose steam.

So, how do you fix this? Build consistency into your plan. Here’s how:

1. Identify your goal (e.g., “I want to be fit”).
2. Find your “why” (e.g., “I want to be healthy to take care of my family”).
3. Set small, realistic goals (e.g., “Lose 10 pounds in 30 days”).
4. Develop habits to reach those goals (e.g., “Run 3 miles, 5 times a week”).

The fourth step—creating habits—is where things usually fall apart.

How to Build Consistency

Here’s my strategy for becoming more consistent:

1. Be present: Focus on the task at hand without worrying about the past or future. As a writer, this means turning off distractions and ignoring doubts like “What if no one likes this?” I acknowledge the thought and move on.
2. Anticipate challenges: When you start something new, there’s a “Dip” after initial excitement wears off. Expect it. Knowing it’s coming helps you push through.
3. Do it even when uninspired: Don’t wait for inspiration. Show up and do the work daily, even if it feels pointless. Write, run, work—consistency leads to progress.
4. Go back to basics: Sometimes, focusing on advanced tactics can make us forget the basics. Master the fundamentals, and progress will follow.
5. Find accountability: Share your goals with a trusted friend or partner who will check in on you.
6. Forgive yourself: If you slip up, don’t dwell on it. Move forward. One missed day doesn’t have to turn into several. If you slip up, don’t dwell on it. Move forward. One missed day doesn’t have to turn into several.

7. My mind is always buzzing with big ideas. It’s common for people to come up with new “genius” ideas even while working on an old one. If the new idea seems amazing, write it down for later. Focus on your current project until you hit important milestones, like 10k sales, covering a specific area, or reaching $10K in weekly revenue. 

8. Find Joy in the Process. If you want to start making progress in any area of your life, focus on being consistent. Be present, expect challenges, and do the work. Take your health, relationships, or career to the next level—and enjoy the journey.

Consistency isn’t glamorous, but it’s the key to progress. So be present, expect bumps in the road, and do the work. You’ll reach your goals—and maybe even enjoy the ride along the way.