Modern task managers such as Todoist and even Google Calendar make it easy to set recurring tasks. Used well, this is powerful. Used poorly, it becomes a trap.
We often create daily recurrences for admirable habits:
- Exercise
- Meditation
- Reading
- Study
- Journaling
But simply scheduling them rarely leads to lasting results. In fact, it can have the opposite effect if you ignore the next step.
Always Schedule a Check-In for Recurring Tasks
Whenever you set up a recurring task, add a follow-up to review how it is working.
Example:
- Recurring task: “Jog 1 km.”
- Follow-up: “If jogging has not stuck after a few days, adjust the frequency or content. If it has, schedule the next review.”
This is simply the Check and Act part of the PDCA cycle applied to personal habits.
Start with a Three-Day Check
For daily habits, schedule the first review three days after you start. If the habit survives that initial test, stretch the next review to one week, then one month, and so on. For weekly habits, review after three weeks; for monthly, after three months. Adjust as needed.
Why You Should Not Let Recurring Tasks Run Forever
1. Prevent “Toxic” Overdue Tasks
Habits fail. When a recurring task keeps resurfacing unfinished, it clogs your list with guilt and discouragement. Build in checkpoints so you can edit, pause, or delete it before that happens.
2. Confirm the Habit Still Has Value
Some routines outlive their usefulness. Continuing them out of habit can consume time without delivering results. The same is true for recurring meetings that no longer serve their original purpose. Periodic reviews help you improve or retire them.
We Can Help You Build Better Habits
Recurring tasks can produce great outcomes, but only when paired with regular reviews. In many ways, the review itself is the most important habit.
If designing and maintaining those checkpoints is difficult, we are here to help. Through our calls and message check-ins, we support you as you refine your routines.
If you want to keep good habits but struggle to sustain them, join the Basic Support Plan. With two daily message check-ins and a weekly review, we will stay by your side.
