Patterns and the Power of Change
Jun 22nd, 2010 by David Svet
I have a routine. Most people do. We tend to make habits of the simple chores that we need to do each day so that we can concentrate on the big exciting stuff. The problem is that several routines become a pattern and a pattern becomes a rut when it’s allowed to grow. Pretty soon you’re stuck in the muck and all hope of creative thought is smothered.
The good news is that patterns are simply behavior that has been designed to be repeatable. The solution is to change the routine.
I have several desks in multiple facilities. I have places that I can go to for a different view, lighting level, texture, smell, activity level, or degree of solitude. When I find myself getting stuck or in a rut, I move. Sometimes I drive a different car to work, roll down the windows, change the stereo, and/or take a different route. Sometimes I go early in the morning or late at night. Instead of working once a day, I’ll go twice with a long break in the middle.
If you’re stuck and can’t try any of those, try turning your desk around, trading chairs, putting up new pictures, or getting a new light. It doesn’t have to be a big change to make a difference. The idea is to disrupt inconsequential behavior that has become routine. It is usually enough of a jolt to get your mind seeing life in a new light. Your productivity and creativity will both thank you.
Patterns are powerful things that deserve respect. If they get in the way, they need to be disrupted.
Photo by Volliem under Creative Commons
I totally agree.
I am working towards breaking some habits and facing challenges which I might not have faced in the past. I am sure this will help me with my career and my path in life in general. It is hard to change things but when they are clearly not working and you know that isn’t where you want to be. Change is the only option to correct the path.
Thanks Jamie! Not sure who said it, but one of my favorite quotes is, “If you change, the results change for you.”