Good habits can make our everyday experiences more positive and our progress towards long-term goals more tangible. But the most effective habits don't just add to our to-do lists. They create a cascading effect that helps us accomplish things more effectively and improve Return on Life in multiple ways. 

Consider investing more of your time into developing these five keystone habits:

1. Regular exercise. 

You can't be your best self at work or in your personal life if you aren't feeling your best. Daily exercise can give your mood and focus a boost, reduce stress, and improve your energy. While I like working out on my own, my wife Rhonda loves working out with her friends.  Working out with a buddy or playing a team sport can also broaden your social circle or strengthen relationships with your family and friends. 

After a few weeks of your new exercise routine, you might find yourself making better decisions and executing tasks more efficiently at the office. And at home you'll feel more present with your loved ones and more excited to share in your family’s favorite activities. 

2. Pen-and-paper note-taking and journaling. 

This habit is inspired by my pastor's message and challenge to our community this past Sunday.  Many studies have found that putting pen to paper creates stronger memories and recall than typing on a phone or computer. Your notebook can also help you block out digital distractions, helping you focus more on the Bible study you're summarizing or the perfect guest list for your spouse's birthday party. 

At the end of the day, crack open your notebook to reflect on what you've learned, what you want to remember, what you're grateful for, or what you just have to get off of your chest. Journaling can improve our perspective on our lives and inspire us to spend more of our time cultivating the good. 

3. Setting SMART goals. 

Why don't we ever achieve the resolutions and aspirations we set for ourselves? Because they're not Specific, Measurable, Actionable, Relevant, and Time-Bound. 

No one can "get healthier." But you can set a SMART goal to hit the gym four times every week or walk for thirty minutes every morning. It's also close to impossible to "learn Italian" before your big trip to northern Italy. But you can bring your flash cards with you during your lunch hour and commit to learning new words or phrases every day that will make your trip more enjoyable. And if you're organizing parts of your schedule around hitting the day's action steps, you'll have more time to work on other goals and activities that are important to you.

4. Learning. 

The world is changing faster than ever. What are you doing to keep pace? 

Devoting a part of your day to reading, taking an online class, or Bible study and meditation can keep your mind and your skills sharp. Learning might also lead you to new activities, sports, or wellness practices that could become keystones of your daily life. And opening yourself up to new ideas will only inspire more curiosity, which will keep you exploring now and well into retirement. 

5. Planning your financial future. 

Saving and investing are keystone habits that you can watch cascade -- and compound -- every time you look at your financial statements. But what good is a higher return on investment if you're not also receiving a greater Return on Life that comes with generous giving?

Life-Centered Planning can help you get more from your God given gifts than just more money or material possessions. A Biblically based process focuses the planning conversation on what your money means to you, what it can help you achieve, how it can help you to prepare for and manage life’s transitions, and help you bridge the gap between your God given means and your God given meaning!

My prayer for you is that by developing these habits you can live a more blessed life.... filled with joy and maximum impact in the areas that matter most!