We're in the second week of Habits Month. If you recall, each Tuesday this month focuses on one method to help establish a new habit. These techniques work for any habit, but of course, we're most interested in those that help bring us towards getting our data and technology under control. Here's a quick reminder about each week's subject matter:
- Routine triggers
- Paper reminders
- Habit apps
- Accountability with friends
After discussing routine triggers last week (on the heels of a similar topic at the end of August), it's time to look at how we can use another tech-free trick to alter our behavior.
Habits Week 2: Paper Reminders
If your home, travel, or work environment allows, you can place brightly colored reminders where you frequently go. Notes can be generic reminders, specific instructions, or final goals you'll achieve after following your habit for a while. For example:
- "Clean email"
- "Organize photos"
- "Delete ten emails"
- "Close browser tabs"
- "Cull today's photos"
- "Review tomorrow's tasks"
- "Inbox zero"
The paper reminder works well with routine triggers, especially if you put notes in places such as a bathroom mirror. The sticky note method can grab your attention anytime you enter a room or other space, such as a cubicle at work, or a kitchen or desk area at home.
Now, full disclosure here...
I've never liked using paper to accomplish something I thought I could do just as well with technology: taking notes, keeping a schedule, planning projects, communicating with others, and so on. Creating reminders to help establish habits is no exception. Some of you may feel the same way. However, I don't doubt that others like paper just fine--maybe even better than tech solutions, which might feel unnecessarily complicated.
However, paper reminders might be more effective if you don't gravitate toward such analog solutions. They feel less natural and, therefore, grab your attention more easily.
But whether paper is already your friend or not, just remember not to overdo it or allow the reminders to become background noise. If you already use sticky notes all over your desk or monitor for scheduling or task reminders, it might not work to mix in a "Clean ten emails!" note among them.
This week, try starting with only one new sticky note in a conspicuous spot in an otherwise sticky-note-free location. Make your brain latch onto the note as something that doesn't belong there. This will cause you to pause and give it extra attention. If this happens enough times—and you act on it by obeying your note—voila! New habit.
Bonus: If sticky notes seem too boring, get creative! You don't have to use paper with written words or instructions. Pick something that will be intentionally out of place:
- A special mug on your pillow
- A stuffed animal on your office chair
- A wire hanger bent into a star shape on your door
- A book opened to a particular page on your nightstand
- A Lego creation set at your place at the dinner table
The possibilities are endless. Remember, the goal is to make yourself notice something out of the ordinary so you remember to continue your new habit.
Happy data-taming!