When thinking about the things that make us who we are, that determine whether you’re at the top of your field or just somewhere in the middle, we often focus on the big decisions: which horse to buy, which trainer to work with, which yard, etc.

Don’t get me wrong, those things matter. But it’s not just the big decisions or choices that influence your performance. Much more, it’s the small things you do every single day.

Our brains are programmed for efficiency. That means our brains love habits because they’re actions we do on auto-pilot. They cost very little energy.

”Habits, scientists say, emerge because the brain is constantly looking for ways to save effort. Left to its own devices, the brain will try to make almost any routine into a habit, because habits allow our minds to ramp down more often. This effort-saving instinct is a huge advantage.”

Charles Duhigg, The power of habit.

That means that by installing habits that set you up for success, you almost unconsciously bring yourself closer to your goals every day.

“Small daily, seemingly insignificant improvements, when done consistently over time, yield staggering results.”

Robin Sharma, The 5AM Club.

What do you want to do every day to set yourself up for your best performance? Which habits do you have in place to help you achieve a little bit of greatness every day?

Using a habit tracker is a fantastic way to measure your progress. Pick about 12 small habits that you feel will support you in being the best version of yourself (you don’t have to check all 12 every day, if you get 80% that’s a great day!). When you’re feeling off your game, go back and check which habits you’ve been neglecting.

Some of these habits may be things you’re already doing. Some may be new. At the top of the page is a snapshot of part of my habit list. Some others you could consider: get enough sleep, practice gratitude, learn something new, make your bed, drink enough water, eat healthy food, connect with someone important to you, take a break, …

Each habit you check off is a small victory you win every day, use them as stepping stones on your way to achieving your bigger goals!