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| photo credit: topher76 via photopin cc |
If you're feeling unmotivated, I know of a trick that may change your life for the better. This trick is often called "Don't Break the Chain!" and was developed by world-renowned comedian, Jerry Seinfeld. According to an article I found in the depths of Lifehacker, Seinfeld used this trick to motivate himself to write new jokes every day in order to become a better comedian. I had first heard about the trick from the hilarious and adorably nerdy Charlie McDonnell in this video quite a long time ago, but for some reason I decided to give it a try about two weeks ago. It has made a great impact on my productivity and I hope it will help you achieve your dreams and all that jazz as well.
To use this technique, all you have to do is take out a big wall calendar and hang it somewhere where you see it everyday. Then you must decide on a task that you wish to complete each day (like writing a new joke, juggling, or practicing the harpsichord). For each day that you complete that task, mark a big "X" on the calendar. Your objective is to go for as long as possible without breaking the chain of X's. The secret behind "Don't Break the Chain!" is the satisfaction of seeing the chain grow. I have been using an app for the iPhone that uses the same principle. It is called Chain Drive and you can get it for free. There are some similar apps out there with more functionality and prettier interfaces for a few dollars more, but I am a very cheap college student and couldn't resist downloading the free version. On top of that, the free version suits my needs just fine. Anyway, I have used this app to practice guitar, Mandarin, Spanish and to work out each day for the past two weeks. At this rate I'll be the world's best and most fit Mandarin and Spanish speaking guitar player in the world by the end of the summer. My childhood dreams will finally be fulfilled (lawllzzz!). I hope you will consider using this technique in some form or another. Good luck, y'all!
