As you might remember from Part I, we looked at what makes consistency so important to you and your clients/consumers. Consistency:
- Provides the structure and processes that help control your brand image
- Protects your investment in marketing and branding and builds it as you grow your company’s reach
- Sets the standard regarding your focus, intentionality and whether you follow through
- Builds customer experience expectations.
In Part II, we looked at fear and boredom as reasons why we might not practice better consistency.
So finally, let’s look at how we can change our mindset and how we can make sure we are delivering the consistent brand and service to our clients. I asked friends and colleagues the methods they use to stay on task, be organized and create good habits. Let’s take a look at some of the suggestions I got from my research.
The Pomodoro Technique
Developed by Francesco Cirillo in the late 1980s, the technique uses a timer to break down tasks (big and/or scary) into
Colleague review: I can easily commit to 25 minutes and usually find I just keep working once I actually get started. Even if I don’t finish the task, at least I got started and the dread is less.
SPEARing™
Developed by Darren Fisher, the technique uses an app to keep you accountable. Writing down your goals is creating the commitment to yourself to get things done.
Colleague review: It really helps me see what I am accomplishing. I tend to focus on what I didn’t get done rather than my successes, so this is motivational to me as well.
Bloggers note: Come on, you didn’t think I would pass up a chance to toot the SPEARity™ App’s horn, did you?
Distraction Elimination
Chronic procrastination or crow-like tendencies (i.e., shiny,/sparkly distraction obsession) can make consistency difficult for some. Tools like Rescue Time or SelfControl temporarily block social media websites, taking away those temptations, while you work on things that matter.
Friend review: I actually had it on our home computer to keep my kids focused on their homework and found it was extremely helpful to my getting work done as well. I understand there are lighter version tools for Facebook and Youtube but I haven’t found a need for them in our household.
Self-Awareness
Once you understand why you are inconsistent, you can be more mindful when you are traveling down that road. Things like templates, or doing the more difficult task at your peak working hours can be beneficial. If you are a reward-based person, reward yourself for beating down the fear or boredom and delivering a consistent brand experience to anyone who works with you by giving yourself 5 minutes to check Facebook, Pinterest or whatever your distraction-of-choice is.
My review: This is the first step to making sure I am being consistent, admitting I am looking for something else to do. I then use one of the methods mentioned above to get me back on track again.
While I was doing my research, I did come across some people that said they don’t have any issues with consistency and maintaining it. My reply was, “If it feels like “been-there-done-that”, you are doing it right”. You have created something that essentially saves you loads of meetings, editing, doubt and stress. All those you come in contact with know exactly what you deliver and can count on it every time. Now, you just need to maintain your good habits and don’t forget to celebrate your success.
Are you ready to do a little self-reflection of why you are getting in your own way in the coming week? Need help? Let’s talk! We are SPEARity, a local Milwaukee leadership coaching firm that specializes in business coaching, executive coaching, and leadership development training.
