Creating good habits is the foundation of success in any trade business. Just like a well-maintained toolset, strong habits compound over time, helping you stay organised, efficient, and on top of your game. But how do you make habits stick? Here are three key secrets to building habits that last.
1. Good Habits Compound, Bad Habits Compound
Habits, whether good or bad, have a compounding effect over time. Your small daily actions can either move you closer to success or create inefficiencies that slow you down.
For example, if you plan your jobs the night before, you’ll start each day with clarity and efficiency. On the other hand, if you regularly put off quoting jobs until the last minute, the backlog will quickly snowball into missed opportunities and stressed-out clients.
The key is to recognise which habits are pushing you forward and which ones are holding you back. Once you identify them, commit to reinforcing the good ones and breaking the bad ones.
2. If It’s Not Written Down, It Doesn’t Exist
One of the most effective ways to solidify a habit is to write it down. Whether it’s a to-do list, a job schedule, or a personal goal, having it in writing keeps it top of mind and increases accountability.
Keeping a habit tracker or a simple checklist can help reinforce your daily routines. For example:
- Writing down quotes as soon as a job is complete ensures you don’t forget to send them out.
- Scheduling regular follow-ups with clients helps maintain strong business relationships.
- Keeping a record of your wins each week boosts motivation and keeps you on track.
A habit isn’t just about thinking or saying you’ll do something—it’s about making it a concrete part of your routine.
3. Accountability Drives Action
One of the most powerful motivators in building habits is accountability. When you know someone will check in on your progress, you’re much more likely to stay consistent.
For tradies, this could mean:
- Partnering with a mate or mentor who keeps you accountable for your business goals.
- Set up weekly check-ins with your team to review what’s working and needs improvement.
- Tracking key metrics like job completion rates, quotes sent, or follow-ups done to measure progress over time.
By creating a system where you regularly review your progress and hold yourself accountable, you’ll reinforce your habits and see real, measurable improvement.
Final Thoughts
Success in any trade business isn’t just about skill—it’s about consistency. The habits you build today will determine where you end up in the future. Focus on small, daily improvements, write down your goals, and keep yourself accountable. Over time, these simple actions will lead to major growth in your business and personal life.
What habits are you working on right now? Start small, stay consistent, and watch the results compound over time.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
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