THE COMPOUNDING PRINCIPLE | EVERY DROP IN THE OCEAN COUNTS

The compounding principle states that small decisions each day can result in a fundamental change over time. The results are not immediately noticeable but it compounds over time and causes a significant shift in the course of life. Not that I did not know it, but gave a serious thought after reading the book The compound effect by Darren Hardy. The Compound Effect takes a contrarian approach in today’s culture of short term gratification.

The compound effect works both ways: positively and negatively. It can be applied to all areas of life. The best part is, it doesn’t require massive changes. Instead, it is all about putting small but important habits into place and applying them every day. The important thing to remember is, when it seems like nothing’s happening, you must keep going. The Compound Effect takes time to work but when it works, the achievement looks like luck.

The Compounding Principle | The Chinese Bamboo Tree

The Chinese bamboo tree seems to lie dormant for four long years, and grows exponentially in next weeks, about eighty feet. Why is that? When there are no signs of growth outwards, the little tree growing underground, develops a root system and a stable base strong enough to support its potential for outward growth in the fifth year and beyond. This is exactly how developing right habits on a consistent basis work. You might not see any changes but when you see the bigger picture, you will notice major transformation. The foundation takes time to support the growth.

People, hustle hard to accomplish their dreams and goals, building strong character while overcoming adversity and challenge. They grow the strong internal foundation to handle success, while those who chase the “quick buck” are unable to sustain unearned sudden wealth. Had the farmer dug up his little seed every year to see if it were growing, he would have stunted the growth. A seed push through the soil to shoot up above the surface, the struggle in the egg is what gives the strength to a little bird, tension against muscles as we exercise strengthen our muscles.

Change is never easy, it is painful and uncomfortable. Signs of progress are slow and frustrating. You will not see anything for a long long while. It is really easy to give up, but we need to keep in mind that every drop in the ocean counts. Accumulation of little little things over time will compound to stratospheric success.

Small, Smart Choices + Consistency + Time = RADICAL DIFFERENCE – Darren Hardy