The Consistency Code

Putting your healthy routine on repeat boosts your motivation. But spontaneity is also key. Here’s the right mix for max results and zero boredom.

- Mirelket Chiff

CONSISTENCY IS ONE of the most powerful tools you have. “Your brain actually craves it,” says Andrew Deutscher, the managing director of the Energy Project, a performance-improvement consulting and research firm. Consistency not only powers you through the day-to-day so you can reach goals but also makes tough routines automatic, so you’ll stay motivated.

But consistency alone gets dull. Spur-of-the-moment experiences add newness and keep you engaged. They tap into your brain’s reward center, studies show, providing hits of pleasure. As a result, you feel invigorated and inspired.

The question, then, is how can you stay consistent while at the same time unconstrained? There is a way, and it’s key to your success. These three techniques will help you strike a balance between steady and ready for anything.

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