Every evening at 6.30pm on the dot is pyjama and toothbrush time (for the kids, of course). We’ve got quite a routine now and managed to get the process down to 10 minutes tops; it’s pretty much a synchronised event that would give Daley and Goodfellow a run for their money.

Just 8 months ago, it was a different kettle of fish. When it came to brushing their teeth, it was like we were asking the twins to run blindfolded through a crocodile infested swamp. James would spend so long thrashing around the floor in a tantrum that he could have brushed his teeth twenty times over; whilst Lily would smear her toothpaste all over the sink in a toddler protest.

Then, overnight, it stopped as quick as it had all started. Why?

It became habit.

They don’t think about it now – they just brush as part of their routine like you and I. (And they get longer wind down time in front of kids TV – we’ve even cracked taking in turns with the remote – another habit they are now used to).

When you mention the word habit, most people immediately think of BAD ones rather than GOOD ones. They can be good or bad but basically are the key to your results and success. I once received a very interesting email where the (humongous) success of the individual was attributed to their “daily disciplines” – work habits as I call them. This person created “daily habits” that together delivered immense results. One of the key reasons for building these habits was to stop procrastination, or the “disease of the poor” as he puts it.

It’s way too easy to start your business day by reading a few emails, “surfing” the internet (even the word surf sounds enticing) and generally putting off until tomorrow what you could do TODAY or even NOW.

Planned daily habits actioned together deliver the numbers in the business that will then deliver your goals. It is difficult to then procrastinate.

To me it is like starting your engine, putting your car into gear, then moving forward. You generally only stop for a needed break (fuel of any kind), or when you reach your destination. I know of very few people that just stop in the middle of the road, get out and aimlessly wonder around.

Think about this the next time you’re brushing your teeth – what daily habits do you need in your business to achieve your goals?