Breaking the Monotony: How to Recognize When It's Time for a Pattern Interrupt

"The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again, but expecting different results." – Albert Einstein

Do you find yourself stuck in the same routine day in and day out? Do you feel like you are living on autopilot, going through the motions without any sense of purpose or fulfillment? If so, you may need a pattern interrupt.

A pattern interrupt is a deliberate change in routine or mindset that disrupts the monotony and allows for growth, innovation, and connection to one's higher purpose. We do this in our relationships, our daily life, and especially our business. But how do you know when it's time for a pattern interrupt?

When I was growing up in Massachusetts, there was a series of television commercials for Dunkin Donuts where this funny, sleep-deprived guy would always be up at the crack of dawn with bags under his eyes, and he would say with a big yawn, "Time to make the donuts." Check it out here to see what I am talking about.

When you get stuck in this mindset, and life feels like a monotonous assembly line, you have likely chosen comfort over challenge, gotten pulled into models and habits that are keeping you in a locked pattern, and probably lost the feeling of connection to your higher purpose.

Suffice it to say, if you are the Dunkin Donuts guy in any part of your life, then it is time for a pattern interrupt.

When I work with clients around this, we explore it on three levels.

• I challenge your mental models and help illuminate the path to massive innovation.
• I help you see where you can step out of your comfort zone and clarify the stepping stones to long-term success.
• I help you find or re-engage with your inspired purpose so that it leads to sustained focus and forward momentum.

There are other ways to experience life, relationships, and career than just living in the daily grind. It is more exciting when you experience it like climbing a mountain where it is constantly new terrain that is ever changing as you ascend to higher and higher levels. Now that's exciting stuff.

Listen, donuts are great, but feeling alive, vibrant, and fulfilled is far more delicious at the end of the day.