Compound effect

Alexis Rae Baker

Dear Lexis,

What is the best tool you’ve ever heard of for changing your life?

Thanks,

Curious in Olympia

Dear Curious,

That’s a great question, and I would say that the answer actually changes on a regular basis because I’m constantly exposed to new information. That being said, probably the easiest, and most effective, method for implementing change is the compound effect.

You may have heard about this concept when it comes to money (Dave Ramsey for example) but it actually applies to any avenue of your life where you desire to change.

I think we all like the idea of immediate results (take this pill and you’ll lose weight, sell this product and you’ll become a millionaire, use this line to find the girl of your dreams) but the reality of life is often a little more challenging.

If you want lasting change, the best way to achieve it is by changing a habit, and that takes time.

Darren Hardy actually wrote a book about this concept called “The Compound Effect” where he goes into detail about how small changes (usually something like eating 150 fewer calories or talking to one additional woman every week) can lead to significant changes over time. However, because the change is so gradual, it won’t feel like change is really occurring until you get the opportunity to look back (although, you likely will feel better about yourself after the first 30 days that you’ll want to keep going).

There is a bit of willpower involved, although Darren says it’s less about willpower than it is commitment, and it’s not going to be easy (per say) but if you know the reason why a change is important for you to make, you’re far more likely to follow through with it.

Figuring out your why is perhaps the biggest factor in whether you will succeed or not, in regard to the compound effect. In all likelihood, if you keep digging though, you will find a compelling enough reason that will motivate you.

In order to implement change, it really can be as simple as:

Set a goal

Figure out why you want to make this change

Figure out what small change you can make to move you toward you goal

and then commit/decide every day to make that change

It’s not hard on the surface, no necessarily in process, but it does require a focus that can be hard to muster at times. The more you practice though, the better you will find that you can change the problem points in your life.

Take it one day at a time, and in a year, or 3 years, you will look back and marvel at the change.

So, while I believe there are many great avenues, I think this method will always be one of my top recommendations.

Good luck to you and I wish you the life of your dreams.

~ Lexis

Lexis is Alexis Rae Baker. She writes from her home in Olympia. Got a question about life, relationships, spirit?  Visit her at lexisrae.com or write to her at Lexis@theJOLTnews.com