111 days. It is noted that in some circumstances this value is arbitrary, and is entirely dependent on what it is you are changing for. 111 days working on an analogue skill such as juggling over a larger-scope of computer programming, will deem varying results in measuring your ‘progress’. Context is integral to using metrics and statistics such as these. Learn the scope of what it is you are now doing, and use that as the yard stick for your progress.

If after that arbitrary value, you feel zero progress, first ask for an outside perspective, often we have a skewed perspective on ourselves, especially since we see ourselves day-in-day-out. A secondary perspective from those we trust to be bluntly honest with us is only part of the judgment. Oftentimes those nearest to us do not (want) to understand where we have now chosen to go. It factors, it however is not the be all and end all for your decision. The second prong to your decision in changing direction is a check-in with self. Removing the ‘objective’ evidence, how do you feel? This is where we express honestly with ourselves. Nice, warm, and fuzzy lies help no one. What’s nicer? Warmer? and fuzzier? Radical change for the better. No need to lie about your reality if you have nothing within your reality to lie about.

To recap:

1. Have we seen any objective ‘progress’?

2. Garner a secondary opinion on that progress.

3. Check-in with self. How do you feel?

If any these form a positive reception to your new changes after 111 days, then stick with it. Check in again in another 111 days, and from there: the sky is the limit.

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