The Power of Consistency: Practicing What We Learn
We all have moments of inspiration where we learn something new, a concept, a skill, a way of thinking, that feels powerful. We might even decide that this newfound knowledge is going to change the way we live, work, or think. Yet, more often than not, those feelings fade, and the practices we’ve learned slip away into the background, forgotten in the busyness of daily life.
But here's the thing: the true power of what we learn lies not in the moment of discovery, but in our ability to practice it consistently over time.
Why We Forget What We Learn
The human brain is incredibly powerful but it’s also wired to be efficient. When we encounter new information or practices, our brains initially go into “learn mode,” working hard to understand and absorb the material. However, without consistent practice or application, the brain starts to prioritise other tasks. New habits, ideas, or skills don’t stick unless we make a conscious effort to keep them active.
Furthermore, life itself doesn’t slow down just because we’re trying to implement something new. Work, relationships, and daily responsibilities continue to demand our attention, often pushing aside the practices we once deemed important. The result? What was once a meaningful shift in our thinking can quickly fade into the background.
The Importance of Consistency
Consistency is the bridge between knowledge and transformation. It's easy to feel motivated to make a change after an inspirational moment but that motivation often wanes. The key to lasting change lies in our ability to practice what we’ve learned, even when we don’t feel like it.
Whether it’s a new exercise routine, a meditation practice, or a change in mindset, the act of doing it regularly is what creates lasting change. In fact, studies show that building habits and practicing new behaviors consistently rewires the brain, strengthening neural connections and helping us form new patterns.
It’s the same principle that applies to learning a new language or mastering a musical instrument: we don’t become fluent or proficient through one intense practice session. It’s the steady, repeated effort over time that leads to mastery.
Practicing Who We Want to Be
We often talk about personal growth as if it’s a destination, somewhere we’ll arrive once we’ve learned enough, or once we’ve mastered a particular skill. But in reality, personal growth is not about reaching a perfect endpoint but rather about a journey. It’s about consistently practicing the qualities we want to embody.
If you want to be more patient, you need to practice patience, even in situations that challenge you. If you want to be more present, you need to practice mindfulness every day, not just when it’s convenient. Want to be more confident? Practice self-affirmation and positive self-talk, not just during moments of doubt but throughout your everyday life.
Who we are becoming is shaped by what we practice. If we want to live in alignment with our values and aspirations, we must make time for consistent practice, regardless of how challenging it may seem in the moment. Consistency is what turns intention into reality.
Creating a Practice That Sticks
So, how do we make sure we’re practicing what we learn and becoming who we want to be?
Start Small: Trying to change everything at once can be overwhelming. Focus on one practice or habit and commit to doing it daily, even if it’s just for a few minutes.
Set Realistic Goals: Progress doesn’t happen overnight. Set small, achievable goals that keep you motivated and build momentum.
Track Your Progress: Keep a journal or checklist of your daily practices. This not only helps you stay consistent, but it also reminds you of how far you’ve come.
Be Kind to Yourself: There will be days when you slip up or forget. That’s part of the process! Don’t be hard on yourself. What matters is getting back on track.
Make It a Routine: The more you integrate your new practices into your daily routine, the less you’ll have to think about it. Eventually, it will become second nature.
The Impact of Consistent Practice
When we practice what we learn, we transform knowledge into lived experience. We become the embodiment of the lessons we’ve absorbed. It’s in the small, consistent actions that we move closer to the person we want to be. The power of practice is that it shapes us slowly, subtly, but profoundly.
So, the next time you learn something new, whether it’s a mindset shift or a skill, don’t let it fade away. Practice it consistently. Be intentional about your growth. The more you practice, the more you’ll become who you’ve always wanted to be.