I'm always seeking ways to be more productive and grow both personally and professionally. That's why Jerry Seinfeld's "don't break the chain" method has become one of my favorite ways of staying on task to achieve goals.
The core idea from comedian Jerry Seinfeld is this: Do the most important thing for your big goals for at least 15-20 minutes every single day without breaking the chain. Get yourself a calendar and cross off each day you put in the work.
In my book, Water the Bamboo, I use bamboo as a metaphor for the goals we're striving to cultivate. You have to patiently water bamboo daily for years before you see dramatic growth. That's the mindset we need - focus on being consistent with the small daily actions, not the big outcome.
“Every Bamboo Farmer knows the doorway to success is paved one bucket at a time.”
I started applying Jerry's advice to my own writing. I would set a timer for 21 minutes each morning and did an uninterrupted writing session. Initially, I wasn't sure I could keep the chain going. But slowly, day after day, I built momentum, and it became a habit.
Seeing those X's stack up on my calendar motivated me to continue. I felt myself steadily improving as a writer through this regular practice. It was no longer about inspiration or mood - the secret was just showing up to water my bamboo.
Here are the key lessons I've learned:
Focus on the process, not the result. Watering the bamboo is what matters, not how tall it stands.
Consistency compounds over time. The chain builds momentum that improves your skills.
Start small. Twenty minutes a day is manageable and prevents burnout.
Never break the chain. Missing one day can derail your progress, but if you do miss a day, start again.
30-Day Challenge
The Seinfeld method has worked wonders for me. That's why I challenge you to identify your most important goal and apply this technique for the next 30 days. Set a timer for 15-21 minutes and put in focused work every day for 30 straight days on a high-value activity that will help you achieve your bamboo. Track it on a calendar, and don't break the chain. Let me know how it works out for you.
With patience and consistency, you'll be amazed at how much you can grow. Just take it one day at a time. You (and your bamboo) will thank you.
This post is based on a podcast by Greg Bell. Listen to the full podcast below: