1. Find a suitable place for your practice.
Be sure to look for the four qualities of a focused practice space: Simplicity, Order, Dedication, and Quiet. Feel free to refer back to the lesson 1.5 transcript for a quick review of any of those qualities.
2. Brainstorm a simple practice ritual.
This is especially important if your practice space has to serve other functions during the day. How will you make a clear mental transition at the beginning of each practice session?Even a simple routine of disconnecting your phone, closing the door, and opening your notebook might be enough.
3. Brainstorm possible times for your practice.
In your practice journal, go ahead and start brainstorming what time of day you can find 20 spare minutes to practice (or less, if you like). Examples: First thing in the morning after you get out of bed.
Or right after dinner in the evening. Anytime when you’re likely to be mentally sharp, physically well-rested,and able to get a little time to yourself will work.
Once you’ve got some possible times, decide on one and write it into your calendar. There. Now it’s official.
If you’re as forgetful as I am, you may even want to post reminders around the house: on the bathroom mirror, on the refrigerator door—wherever you’re likely to see it. Practice routines are fragile in the beginning, and reminders do help. Please feel free to plaster your home in post-its if that’s what it takes.