It feels like we’re constantly chasing after the next big thing. So the cliche goes, our social media feeds, news cycles and email notifications never stop, always presenting us with something new and shiny. This can be exhausting and overwhelming, and it makes sticking to a resolution nigh on impossible.
So what if we took a step back and re-embraced the power of repetition?
We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.
Traditionally, repetition has been a good thing
Aristotle nailed it when he said, “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.” Through repeating positive actions and thoughts, for centuries people have learned, grown and developed, leading meaningful lives.
Repetition isn’t just about personal growth, though. It also brings stability and consistency. In a world that often feels chaotic and uncontrollable, having something predictable to rely on can be incredibly grounding.
But modern life makes repetition sound boring
Social media, news, and marketing all thrive on the novelty factor. There’s always a new trend to follow, a breaking news story to read, or a viral video to watch. This endless stream of new information makes it hard to focus on any one thing for long.
Our brains are wired to seek out new experiences because they trigger a release of dopamine, the feel-good chemical we all love. The downside being that when combined with modern tech, it can lead to a cycle of distraction and shallow engagement. We flit from one thing to the next, never diving deep or giving ourselves time to truly absorb anything. Never creating, only consuming.
What if you received a weekly email that said the same thing every time?
An idea: a weekly email of the exact same thing every time
So, what if, in the midst of all this noise, you received a weekly email that said the exact same thing every time? It might sound boring at first, but think about the potential benefits. This email could act as an anchor, reminding you of your core values, important truths, or simple actions that make your life better.
Imagine the possibilities:
Personal Growth: A weekly email could be the nudge you need to get back to the gym, complete that qualification or pick up the guitar. Or it could be a quote you like, a motto you’d like to remember, or the link to a song you like listening to.
Mental Clarity: A consistent message can cut through the noise and help you refocus on what truly matters to you.
Stability: Knowing you’ll receive the same message each week can be comforting and grounding.
Would you give it a go?
While no one likes the bad type of repetition (learning boring information by heart, being stuck on the phone listening to elevator music on a loop), the good type can really help us.
The key is to be intentional about what we choose to repeat. Repetition should be purposeful, reinforcing the good things in our lives. A weekly email saying the same thing might seem simple, but its impact could be profound.
By providing a consistent reminder of what’s truly important, it can help us stay grounded in the whirlwind of modern life, fostering stability, clarity, and personal growth. In the end, it’s not just about finding the next new thing, but about remembering and reinforcing the good things we already have.
What do you think? Let’s discuss it in the comments.
I’d be down for trying it.