In a world where time is a finite and valuable resource, productivity has become an increasingly sought-after trait. From the boardroom to the classroom, individuals are seeking ways to maximize their output and achieve their goals within the confines of a 24-hour day. Yet, despite our best intentions, productivity remains elusive for many. The path to increased productivity is fraught with distractions, procrastination, and a lack of motivation. It requires discipline, focus, and the willingness to reexamine our habits and routines. As we continue to navigate a fast-paced, constantly evolving world, the quest for productivity has become more important than ever.
One approach that can help corporate leadersbecome more productive is the Start Doing, Stop Doing, and Continue Doing (SDSCD) approach. This approach involves taking a critical look at our current habits and routines and making changes to what we start doing, stop doing, and continue doing. In this blog, we will explore how the SDSCD approach can help you achieve your aspirations.
What is the Start Doing, Stop Doing, Continue Doing (SDSCD) approach?
The SDSCD approach is a simple yet powerful technique for improving productivity. It involves identifying the things that corporate leadersneed to start doing, stop doing, and continue doing to achieve their goals. This approach can be applied to any area of your life, including work, personal development, health, and relationships.
The Start Doing component of the SDSCD approach involves identifying the new habits or behaviors that you need to adopt to achieve your goals. For example, if you want to improve your productivity at work, you might start waking up earlier, taking regular breaks, or using a productivity tool.
The Stop Doing component of the SDSCD approach involves identifying the habits or behaviors that are holding you back from achieving your goals. For example, if you spend too much time on social media, you might need to stop checking your phone during work hours.
The Continue Doing component of the SDSCD approach involves identifying the habits or behaviors that are already helping you achieve your goals. For example, if you have a daily exercise routine that is helping you stay healthy, you might want to continue doing it. This is the component that you neither change nor stop. It is what you continue as it is owing to the consistent results you are already seeing.
How can the SDSCD approach help you achieve your aspirations?
This approach can help you achieve your aspirations in several ways. “My wellness coach recommended I try this approach, but she used a different name for it. It was with this method that I noticed how I needed to stop overthinking before presentations. I also had to start preparing more in advance to avoid last-minute jitters. And as for the content I had to present, it was great so I could continue doing it. This analysis and break-down into three parts helped me feel confident during meetings,” said a corporate woman from India.
Here are a few examples for how this approach could change your routine:
- It helps you identify areas for improvement
The SDSCD approach forces you to take a critical look at your current habits and routines. By identifying the things that you need to start doing, stop doing, and continue doing, you can pinpoint the areas where you need to improve. This self-awareness is crucial for achieving your aspirations.
- It helps you set goals
The Start Doing component of the SDSCD approach involves identifying the new habits or behaviors that you need to adopt to achieve your goals. By setting specific goals, you can create a roadmap for achieving your aspirations.
- It helps you stay focused
The Stop Doing component of the SDSCD approach involves identifying the habits or behaviors that are holding you back from achieving your goals. By eliminating distractions and focusing on what matters most, you can stay on track and make progress toward your aspirations.
- It helps you build momentum
The Continue Doing component of the SDSCD approach involves identifying the habits or behaviors that are already helping you achieve your goals. By continuing to do the things that are working, you can build momentum and make steady progress toward your aspirations. This is what helped the corporate woman mentioned above focus on aspects of improvement and put things that are already working out of her mind.
Examples of how the SDSCD approach can be applied
Let’s take a look at some examples of how the SDSCD approach can be applied in different areas of our lives:
- Work
Start Doing: Create a to-do list at the beginning of each day to prioritize tasks.
Stop Doing: Stop checking email every five minutes and limit email checking to specific times of the day.
Continue Doing: Continue taking breaks to recharge and refresh your mind.
- Personal development
Start Doing: Start meditating for 10 minutes every morning to improve focus and reduce stress.
Stop Doing: Stop procrastinating and start taking action on tasks immediately.
Continue Doing: Continue reading personal development books to gain new knowledge and skills.
- Health
Start Doing: Start a daily exercise routine to improve overall health and well-being.
Stop Doing: Stop consuming sugary drinks and replace them with water or healthier alternatives.
Continue Doing: Continue eating a balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.
- Relationships
Start Doing: Start scheduling regular hangouts with your significant other to strengthen the relationship.
Stop Doing: Stop checking your phone during conversations with loved ones.
Continue Doing: Continue expressing gratitude and appreciation for your loved ones.
As you can see, the SDSCD approach can be applied in various areas of our lives. It helps us stay intentional about our actions and make changes that align with our goals. In a way, it bridges the fine line between who we are and who we wish to be.
Tips for using the SDSCD approach effectively
Here are some tips for using the SDSCD approach effectively:
- Be specific
When identifying what you need to start doing, stop doing, and continue doing, be as specific as possible. This will make it easier to create a plan of action and measure your progress.
- Focus on one area at a time
It can be tempting to want to make changes in multiple areas of your life at once. However, this can be overwhelming and lead to burnout. Instead, focus on one area at a time and make changes gradually.
- Track your progress
Keep track of your progress to stay motivated and hold yourself accountable. This can be done through a journal, a productivity app, or a habit tracker.
- Be flexible
As you implement changes, be open to adjusting your approach if necessary. What works for one person may not work for another, so be willing to experiment and find what works best for you.
Time to stop reading and start doing!
The Start Doing, Stop Doing, Continue Doing approach is a powerful technique for improving productivity and achieving your aspirations. By identifying the things that you need to start doing, stop doing, and continue doing, you can make intentional changes to your habits and routines for lasting improvements.
With the SDSCD approach, you can make steady progress toward achieving your goals and aspirations starting right now. For more assistance on this, reach out to us.
