In the fast-paced world of inside sales, we’re constantly juggling tasks, hitting targets, and pushing for results. Introducing new habits can feel like adding one more thing to an already overflowing to-do list.
But what if we simplified the process? What if we dedicated just one day to trial a new habit?
Just ONE day.
To make this easier, let’s leverage strategies that have worked for us before. We’ve all adopted new habits or tweaked our routines—whether it was refining our pitch or mastering a new CRM tool. How did we do it?
Take a moment to pause. Reflect on a habit you successfully integrated into your sales workflow:
- How did it feel when you made that change? Did it boost your confidence or help you close more deals?
- What motivated you to start? Was it a sales goal, a team challenge, or a desire to improve your metrics?
- Who in your circle encouraged or supported you? Did your sales manager provide guidance, or did a peer share tips?
- What kept you committed? Was it seeing the results in your numbers or the satisfaction of mastering a new technique?
- Did you link this habit to an existing routine, like starting your day with prospecting or setting up a follow-up call right after a pitch?
- How long did it take before it felt natural, like a seamless part of your daily sales cadence?
- Reflecting on it now, how do you feel about that habit? Is it still contributing to your success?
With these insights, consider how you can apply that same process to a new habit you want to test out—for just one day.
For this one-day habit:
- Define your “why.” Why does this habit matter in the context of your sales strategy? Will it help you close more deals, improve client relationships, or streamline your workflow?
- Plan out your day. Write down exactly how you’ll incorporate this habit into your schedule.
- Break it down. Identify each step, especially the micro-actions that will drive success.
- Leverage your strengths. What existing skills or tools will support this habit?
- Anticipate challenges. How will you handle distractions, client demands, or anything that could derail your focus?
- Prepare for pushback. Be clear on how you’ll stay committed if someone challenges your choice or if the habit feels uncomfortable.
- Mark your calendar. Set a date and send yourself a reminder—when the day comes, go all in!
The truth is, dedicating just one day to a new habit can be a powerful way to challenge assumptions and build resilience. In that single day, you can explore your potential and gain valuable insights.
At the end of the day, take time to debrief:
- What did you expect to happen, and what was the reality? Reflect with honesty and clarity.
Everything you learn during this one-day experiment will inform how you approach habit formation moving forward. You might even find that this practice of a one-day test run becomes one of your most valuable long-term strategies for continuous improvement.