Quick Wins: Three Easy Habits to Shortcut your Way to Success

W5 coaching habits for success

John Nieuwenburg

John Nieuwenburg has been a professional business coach since 2004. Prior to becoming a coach, he held executive positions with Tip Top Tailors and BC Liquor Stores. In 2019, MacKay CEO Forums awarded him with Canada’s CEO Trusted Advisor Award in the Small Business category. Since becoming a coach, John has worked with over 350 clients, taking them through a systematic process that helps them feel organized, confident and in control of their businesses.

It’s easy to think that success happens just because you work really hard – but it usually isn’t that way.

Instead, I’ve found that the most successful business owners are the ones who implement a set of habits that support their success.

In fact, about half of the results you get are a product of your habits.

So if you want things to change in your business, your habits have to change first.

I always recommend that my clients begin by creating habits that free up their time and allow them to focus on their priorities.

Three simple habits for business success

Here are some simple habits you can start TODAY to make sure you stay focused on your business goals.

Plan your week

At the beginning of each week, take about 20 minutes to mentally prepare.

This means going over what you want to accomplish for the week, along with what you need to do to make it happen.

Plan your day

At the end of each workday, take about 10 minutes to review what you’ve accomplished and what you need to achieve the next day.

Make your to-do list for tomorrow while today’s accomplishments are fresh in your mind.

You’ll sleep better because you’ve gotten your list out of your head, and your subconscious will also keep working through challenges as you rest.

Work your plan

Every day when you come into the office, you’ll see the list your earlier self made for you.

No wasting time wondering where to start or figuring out what you need to do that day, because you already took care of it.

Now all you have to do is work your plan.


If you’d like to really accelerate your progress, consider making it a habit to meet with a business coach.

Want to explore whether coaching is right for you? Book 15 minutes on my calendar here: book a call with John

The Ultimate Guide to Becoming a Better Business Owner

become a better owner

If an owner wants a better business, first the business needs a better owner.

This post is part of my Ultimate Guide to Becoming a Better Business Owner. Visit the guide homepage to get my best advice and coaching exercises to help you with:

  • Mindset. Thinking like an owner and seeing the big picture of your business.
  • Planning. Deciding what you want, setting a goal, and making plans to get after it.
  • Habits. Changing your behaviours to help you get what you want.
  • Learning. Getting new information and developing new skills.
  • Growth. Facing your fears, stepping outside your comfort zone, and doing what it necessary to create the business of your dreams.