Rome Wasn’t Built in a Day – The Importance of a Brick-by-Brick Approach

We all have goals that we want to accomplish. Some are achievable within a short amount of time, while others can take years to master. Whatever your long-term aspirations are, it is important to remember that it takes time, patience, and effort to make them a reality. The famous saying, “Rome wasn’t built in a day” is a testament to the fact that great things take time and effort to create.

However, it is not enough to simply focus on the end result. In fact, focusing too much on the end goal can make it seem overwhelming and impossible. This is where John Heywood’s twist on the famous saying comes in: “Rome wasn’t built in a day, but they were laying bricks every hour.” Heywood suggests that the emphasis should be on the system, or the process, that is used to achieve the end result. The bricks are the small steps that are taken every day to build something great.

Whether you want to start your own business, climb the corporate ladder, or achieve any other long-term goal, it is important to adopt a brick-by-brick approach to make it happen. Here are some tips that can help you build your own Rome, one brick at a time.

1. Wake up Early

As the CEO of Apple, Tim Cook is known for getting up early and sending out company emails at 4:30 am. While this may seem extreme, waking up early can provide you with more time to accomplish important tasks and activities. With limited distractions in the morning, this time has the potential to be your most productive part of the day.

2. Visually See Your Goals

Seeing your goals each and every day will not allow you to forget about what you are trying to achieve. Write your goals on Post-It notes and place them where you will see them every day. This will ensure that you stay focused and motivated to achieve your long-term aspirations.

3. Watch Motivational Videos

It can be hard to stay motivated when things don’t go your way. Each day before you open your first email, watch a short and positive video online to get your mindset in the right place. This will help you start the day off on a positive note and think optimistically.

4. Leave Drama Behind

If you want to be able to concentrate properly at work, there cannot be drama or stress weighing over your head. Learn to resolve conflicts positively and with confidence, as this will help reduce your stress level. A less stressful environment will lead to a more productive day.

5. Eat a Healthy Breakfast

Eating a wholesome, nutritious morning meal will get your body feeling great. By recharging your brain and body, you’ll be more efficient in just about everything you do.

6. Write Down Daily Goals

Writing down daily goals will help you stay more organized and accomplish more. There is nothing better than accomplishing a task from your “to-do” list and being able to cross it off your checklist.

7. Stay Hydrated

Hydrating your body so it can perform mentally and physically at its peak level is vital when you are putting in long work hours. Make sure to drink 8 glasses of water per day, as even mild dehydration can drain your energy and make you tired.

8. Check Fewer Emails

Constantly checking and responding to emails will make you less productive with other tasks you are trying to accomplish. Start checking your inbox less frequently and start accomplishing more.

9. Do Something that Makes You Happy

Life is too short not to enjoy each and every day. Incorporating an activity that makes you happy will be beneficial for your mental health and well-being.

10. Workout

Physical activity is beneficial for your health. Even if you only have time for a quick set of 25 pushups and 25 sit-ups each and every morning or in the evening before you go to bed, this will get your heart rate going and provide you with more energy.

11. Less Meetings

Scheduling meetings for half of the time you originally intended to can make them more efficient. The shorter time span means the agenda can still be covered more quickly and efficiently.

12. Reduced Commute Time

Reducing your commute time can greatly increase your effectiveness in the office and enhance your overall lifestyle outside of work. Having more time in your day can mean more time for activities you enjoy, such as reading, exercising, or spending time with family and friends.

13. Do Something that Makes You Uncomfortable

Science has proven that doing something that scares you will make you more productive. Make it a goal each day to do at least three things that make you uncomfortable.

In conclusion, the brick-by-brick approach requires persistence, dedication, and patience. But as long as you take small, consistent steps every day towards your long-term goals, you can eventually build your own Rome. Remember, “Rome wasn’t built in a day, but they were laying bricks every hour.”