Welcome to another edition of the 1% Habits Newsletter!

This is where you’ll get up-to-date information on small wins to improve your habits, productivity, and life satisfaction. 

Let’s get to it…

📈 The #1 Habit for Learning Something New

Do you feel overwhelmed when trying to learn something new?

Or more specifically, have you ever struggled with what to do first with a new skill?

One solution is a simple habit that can become your secret weapon to learning anything new.

This is the exact same technique that I’ve used to learn online business strategies, personal finance, real estate investing, and the current Etsy business I’m trying to build.

Introducing: Just-in-Time Learning

Let’s start with a simple definition of just-in-time learning.

Simply put, whenever you want to learn something new, you should pay attention only to information that can be immediately implemented.

We often have the "classroom mentality" where we sit through hours of lessons before taking action. Just-in-time learning, however, flips this model on its head. Instead of trying to absorb all the information at once, you focus on learning what you need to know to take the next step.

The just-in-time learning approach ensures that the knowledge you gain is relevant and immediately applicable, which helps in retaining information and seeing tangible results quickly.

The concept of just-in-time learning is akin to building a structure one brick at a time. You don’t need to have the entire blueprint memorized; you just need to know where to place the next brick.

This method not only reduces the feeling of being overwhelmed but also allows for more dynamic learning. You can adjust and pivot your learning path based on real-world feedback, making the process more efficient and effective.

Okay, now let’s talk about how to apply this technique to your personal life.

Step #1: Practice Full Immersion in a Skill

The simplest way to build a skill is to do a deep dive on that particular topic. This means learning everything you can about this subject. Here are some steps to fully immerse yourself in a skill:

1. Consume Varied Content: Dive into multiple formats like books, podcasts, YouTube videos, and online courses. Each format offers a unique perspective and can help reinforce your understanding.

2. Engage with Communities: Join online forums, Facebook groups, and local Meetup groups related to your skill. Engaging with a community allows you to learn from others' experiences and get real-time feedback.

3. Follow Industry Leaders: Identify and follow experts in your field. Subscribe to their newsletters, follow their social media accounts, and read their blogs. This keeps you updated on the latest trends and best practices.

4. Practical Application: Apply what you learn immediately. For instance, if you're learning about YouTube, start creating videos as you consume content about scriptwriting, lighting, and editing.

For example, because I am currently building an Etsy business, I have watched videos from many successful Etsy sellers, subscribed to podcasts that interview top Etsy entrepreneurs, read books on e-commerce strategies, and asked questions from friends who have experience with Etsy.

Step #2: Identify Your Current Challenges

You don’t have to study for weeks (or even months) before implementing lessons. It's better to identify your current challenge, learn all you can about how to master it, and then apply what you’ve learned. This gives you real-world feedback about what works and what doesn’t.

Simply put, the best way to learn anything is to put information into action and then make adjustments along the way.

Continuing with the Etsy example, while I have come across lots of information about marketing and growing an Etsy shop, this stuff is not currently helpful. So most of what I’m trying to learn is:

● Understanding Etsy SEO

● Driving outside traffic to my listings

● Identifying product ideas that will sell

● Writing compelling product descriptions

● Mastering customer service best practices

Step #3: Take Notes and Create Action Items

Once you identify current challenges, you’ll know what to look for as you practice self-education. When you’re reading, watching videos, or listening to podcasts, continue to write down any ideas that you think might be helpful.

The key here is to put everything you learn into a logical order of tasks that you need to complete.

For example, I keep a list that is broken down into categories:

● Growing the Etsy shop

● Listing products on Etsy

● Finding good product ideas

● Marketing and promoting products

● Writing compelling product descriptions

There are many tools you can use to maintain all your ideas. Personally, I use a combination of Todoist to make specific tasks that I’d like to complete and Google Docs to keep track of everything that I’ve learned.

The tools you use don’t matter. What’s important is to have a central hub where you keep every idea that you come across as you’re learning a new skill.

Step #4: Take Consistent Action

The best way to learn anything is through daily practice. Here are some actionable steps to ensure you take consistent action:

1. Daily Practice: Set aside at least 30 minutes each day to work on your new skill. Consistency is key to mastery.

2. Create a Schedule: Use a planner or digital calendar to block out specific times each day dedicated to your skill. Treat these time blocks as non-negotiable appointments.

3. Set Weekly Goals: At the beginning of each week, outline what you aim to achieve. Break down these goals into smaller, manageable tasks.

4. Review and Reflect: At the end of each week, review what you’ve accomplished. Reflect on what worked, what didn’t, and how you can improve.

5. Accountability Partner: Find someone who can hold you accountable. Share your goals with them and check in regularly to discuss your progress.

(To do all this, I recommend using a daily planner template. Like the one we offer in our store.)

I would challenge you to take what you’re learning related to your new skill and work at it daily. Set aside at least 30 minutes to work on this area of your life.

Also, once a week, sit down and schedule tasks for the next seven days. I prefer to do this on Sunday nights. In your calendar, block out a specific time each day for when you’ll complete the habits related to this skill.

Step #5: Avoid Distractions

This is where things will get really challenging. In order to master one area of your life, you have to "say no" to almost anything else that will get in the way. In fact, it’s often the activities that you are "somewhat interested in" that can become the biggest distractions.

If you are being pulled in a million directions, here are three simple rules:

1. Say "no" to almost everything that’s not related to your current focus. Within reason, of course, as we all have life obligations that demand our attention.

2. Create a filter system where you keep good ideas that you can’t work on right now. For example, in Evernote, I keep folders of ideas related to projects that I "might" pursue one day.

3. Don’t beat yourself up if you can’t work on everything. It’s okay to put off things that aren’t immediately important. I’ve wanted to start a YouTube channel for years, so I kept storing ideas in this folder. Now that I’m taking action, I have a lot of ideas that I can pursue.

Final Thoughts on Just-in-Time Learning

There you have it—five steps that can help you build the "just-in-time learning" habit.

Don’t underestimate the power of this concept.

As you’re building a new skill, it’s tempting to want to learn everything you can.

But you’re not giving yourself the opportunity to learn by taking action.

To put these steps into practice:

1. Start Small: Pick one skill you want to master and focus solely on that.

2. Set Clear Goals: Define what you want to achieve in the next week, month, and quarter.

3. Create a Learning Plan: Identify the resources you’ll need and schedule time for learning and practice.

4. Track Your Progress: Use tools like Todoist and Google Docs to keep track of your tasks and learning milestones.

5. Reflect and Adjust: Regularly review what you’ve learned and make adjustments as needed.

6. Celebrate Milestones: Acknowledge and celebrate your progress. This keeps you motivated and reinforces the habit of consistent learning.

By following these steps, you can effectively master any new skill you set your mind to.

Remember, the key is to focus on immediate application and consistent practice.

Stay dedicated, avoid distractions, and you'll find yourself making significant progress in no time.

Happy learning!

⚙️1% Habit Idea

Today’s 1% habit will (hopefully) help you minimize some of your expenditures for the upcoming holiday season.

If you love shopping on Amazon but hate missing out on great deals, Camel Camel Camel is the perfect tool for you.

This website helps you track the prices of products on Amazon, so you always know when to buy to get the best discounts.

With Camel Camel Camel, you can see and compare price histories, compare prices offered by Amazon and third-party sellers, and make sure you're getting the best deal every time you shop.

Why Camel Camel Camel is Awesome for Amazon Shoppers

Camel Camel Camel is essential for anyone who wants to save money while shopping on Amazon.

Instead of constantly checking prices and wondering if you should wait to buy, Camel Camel Camel does the hard work for you. It tracks price changes, allowing you to see when the price of an item drops to a level you're happy with.

This way, you can relax and shop smarter, knowing you'll never miss out on a great deal.

Getting started with Camel Camel Camel is really easy, even if you're not super tech-savvy. Follow these 3 simple steps, and you'll be on your way to saving money in no time!

Step 1: Visit the Camel Camel Camel Website

First things first, go to camelcamelcamel.com. The homepage is clean and straightforward, making it easy to find your way around.

You’ll see a search bar right on top where you can start your journey.

Step 2: Search for Products

Start finding products you want to buy.

You can either type the name of the item you’re looking for or paste the Amazon URL into the search bar on the Camel Camel Camel homepage.

Once you do, you’ll see a detailed price history chart showing the highest, lowest, and current prices over different periods.

You can also choose to view price comparisons between Amazon and third-party sellers who sell the item you’re looking for brand new or third-party sellers selling it in used condition.

Pro Tip: To check if there are cheaper deals outside of Amazon for the item you want, you can copy the item’s UPC (Universal Product Code) which can be found by scrolling down the Camel Camel Camel page to the Product Details section.

Pull up a search for that UPC on Google and see if lower prices are offered by other merchants.

Step 3: Make Your Purchase

Once you know the best deals for the product you want, you can now make an informed decision to purchase it.

Camel Camel Camel is an amazing incredible tool that makes saving money on Amazon easier than ever. Whether you're shopping for everyday items or special treats, Camel Camel Camel helps you get the most value for your money.

🗂️ The Resource Roundup

🌐 30 Top Secret Websites to Make Money This Year: Up to $7000/mo – Discover some hidden gems of the internet where you can boost your income effortlessly! This article highlights unique websites that can help you make money on the side, whether you're looking to monetize your skills or simply earn extra cash in your spare time. 

💲 Rich in Quiet Confidence - This article explores the concept of quiet confidence, showing how true wealth isn’t just about money but also about a strong, assured mindset. It’s a valuable read for anyone looking to build lasting self-assurance and a sense of calm success from within.

👬 The Importance of Developing and Maintaining Your Social Fitness – Is your social life feeling a bit out of shape? This article emphasizes the importance of social fitness and how regularly maintaining your social connections can boost your well-being, confidence, and resilience, just like physical exercise does for your body.

🌴 Mini-retirements are all the rage, but what exactly does it entail – Mini-retirements offer a refreshing way to break from the daily grind, allowing you to reassess your life and career. This article shares inspiring stories from individuals who embraced this lifestyle change, along with essential tips for planning and funding your own mini-retirement.

🛞 How To Be Well Rounded - Do you really need advice from the absolute best to improve your life? This article challenges the notion of relying on extreme outliers, offering a balanced approach to learning from experts while keeping your own well-rounded life in focus for lasting personal satisfaction.

That’s it for today.

Enjoy the rest of your weekend!

Talk soon.

Cheers,

Steve Scott