If You’ve Always Done What You’ve Always Done

At the start of 2025, I started to post articles on my website under the category of ’52 Guiding Lights.'

The goal was to share insights on sayings and idioms that aid daily life. I got up to number 16. The goal is to publish these as a management aid. However, we plan to release them in smaller batches, such as 12 at a time. That’s a year’s worth.

Unfortunately, the website will be closing soon. The costs and time required do not justify the return.

I have published most of these on Vocal and intend to continue doing so. Here is number 17.

"If You’ve Always Done What You’ve Always Done -

Then you’ll always get what you’ve always got."

When I was working, I claimed this as being my brainwave. I was very disappointed to learn that it had been used for quite some time. I must have come across it at some stage, and it stuck with me.

I used it frequently to motivate employees to accept and embrace change and to have the courage to face it.

This quote connects Henry Ford, the pioneer of the car industry. It has also been linked to Tony Robbins, the motivational speaker. Consider Henry Ford encouraging people to adopt the motor car as their new mode of travel.

It has also been used by Jessie Potter. Ms. Potter directed the National Institute for Human Relationships in Oak Lawn, Illinois. She shared stories and honest views on sex and love. She said the American way of growing up, falling in love, raising families, and aging needs to change.

It has been used for meeting notices in Alcoholics Anonymous groups and events. Some AA literature also features it.

Regardless of its origin, it is sound advice. Many of us tend to avoid and dislike change. Psychologists will tell you that humans, like many animals, need consistency and predictability. When we are faced with change, it triggers stress and anxiety—a fear of the unknown.

All animals have a fight-or-flight zone. This zone helps them decide to fight or run. For us, it appears as a challenge. It pushes us to rethink our routines, comfort zones, and identity.

We often fear change. We worry about losing what we have or facing something worse.

Most people want conditions to improve. When asked, most will say "Yes." We want to have better jobs. Some want to live in bigger houses or have more luxury items. Others may simply wish to change an aspect of their lives that they are unhappy with.

Part of the reason we all struggle with change is that our brains are hardwired and we become accustomed to certain ways of life.

If you don’t believe me, try three things differently tomorrow when you get up. For example,

(i) If you normally have a cup of tea or coffee first thing, then don’t. Wait two hours, then have it.

(ii) If you normally have breakfast, skip it and wait until lunchtime.

(iii) If you normally look at your phone and read messages as soon as you are up, don’t do it. Wait for two hours.

You will find these changes in routine disconcerting.

Change is good. If we didn’t have change, we would not progress, learn, or develop. The trick with change is to manage it. Managing change helps you get ready and reduces emotional stress and uncertainty. Plan the next steps you will take.

Most importantly, take time to reflect and measure your progress. That keeps you motivated and helps you see how far you have come.

Till next time,

Calvin