As a coach, I am always intrigued by both how unique we all are and, at the same time, how similar themes emerge in coaching. One that pops up repeatedly is getting from point A to point B, getting things accomplished. In a word, progress—specifically, why it can feel so frustratingly elusive. In a world enamored with instant results and overnight success, it can be easy to forget how powerful something is that isn't flashy or headline-worthy: boring consistency.
Let's get real: Consistency isn't sexy. Posts and articles about consistency of interest and effort don't often go viral because they seem dull. (Perhaps this article will be different?) But have you ever wondered how "those other people" seem to achieve their goals with apparent effortless ease while you struggle? The answer usually lies in the mundane: the ability to show up, the unremarkable routine, the persistence and the small, steady steps that add up over time.
Being Like A Bulldozer
Here's where I like to use my favorite analogy: the bulldozer. Picture it: a big, heavy machine moving slowly but surely through debris, removing obstacles in its path, one determined push at a time. It doesn't speed up or slow down based on what's in front; it just keeps going. And at times, it's covered in dirt and mud. That is what boring consistency looks like.
It is not usually about dramatic leaps forward; it's about showing up, doing the work and inching forward day in and day out. When you move toward your objectives "like a bulldozer," you are not into quick wins; you are into persistent, forward motion, no matter how small that seems at the time.
Build Progress Incrementally
I always remind myself and my clients that small steps do count. A five-minute walk is a win if your goal is to get fit. It counts. Why? Because it is five minutes more physical activity than you did yesterday. It's so easy to discount the value of these tiny actions, but each incremental step forward adds up over time.
When you're trudging through a challenging project, trying to build a new habit, finish a degree or start a new venture, you can feel frustrated by the lack of visible progress. But think of the bulldozer: Each push moves a little more dirt, and each inch forward is one inch closer to the goal. It might not look like much on any given day, but it makes a world of difference over weeks and months.
Consistency Over Perfection
James Clear, the author of Atomic Habits, says, "Sometimes all you need for exceptional results is average effort repeated for an above-average amount of time." I'd augment that nugget of wisdom by adding the word "consistent" before "effort" because that's really the key. It isn't about being perfect; rather, it is doing enough and doing so consistently.
Perfection is a trap; according to research, it is a "sad and lonely place." It keeps us stuck, chasing some impossible standard. Consistency, on the other hand, is sustainable and generally within our own control. It allows us to keep going even when the work isn't "perfect." It gives us permission to be human—to have off days, to make mistakes and to keep moving forward anyway.
Imagine Yourself In The Future
But considering "consistency" isn't headline-grabbing and can feel repetitive, mundane and boring, how can we keep ourselves from giving up? One subtle way to keep yourself motivated as you push the proverbial dirt, a little bit at a time, is to imagine yourself six months or a year from now, having reached your goal. What will it feel like? Allow yourself to really picture it. How does achieving your goal align with your life's direction and values? What challenges will you overcome? How proud will you feel? What new opportunities and possibilities might open up as a result of reaching your goals?
Research shows that when people feel more connected to their future selves, they're more likely to make healthier choices, like exercising more and taking better care of themselves. If we reflect upon our greatest accomplishments, few of us remember the specific days. Instead, what remains is a kind of aggregation of all those moments that didn't individually feel remarkable. It's not the moments of heroism that survive in our memory; it's the quiet, plain days when we simply did our job.
Activating The Bulldozer Mindset
What is the key takeaway? Next time you think you are stuck and frustrated with the lack of progress, remember the bulldozer analogy. You don't have to clear the whole field today. You just have to keep moving forward, one slow, steady push at a time.
Here is how to activate that "bulldozer mindset":
Step 1: Identify one area where you can apply boring consistency (e.g., a habit, a project, a job search, etc.).
Step 2: Break it down into small, manageable steps to create a routine. Identify what you can do today, tomorrow, this week.
Step 3: Set a realistic, consistent schedule and stick to it, focusing on incremental progress over perfection.
Step 4: Regularly check in with yourself, celebrate wins (no matter how small) and adjust and refine your approach as needed.
Step 5: Imagine yourself in the future, say, six or 12 months from now; give it a specific date, picturing what it will feel like to achieve your goals.
The cool thing about boring consistency is that it "grows up" to become self-respect and discipline over time. Somewhere along the line, a sense of progress becomes clearer, and what was tedious becomes gratifying. It is like you're pushing this bulldozer for hours, then you turn around and see how much area was cleared up behind you. That's when boring becomes exciting. It's not because the work itself changed; you stuck with it long enough to see the fruits of your labor.
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