What's a Pirate Map got to do with anything?

How to use this simple tool for habit-building.

As we enter a new year, you may be reflecting on resolutions—or perhaps are disregarding them altogether. Maybe you're considering goals you'd like to achieve and habits you'd like to build, or maybe you dislike the idea of change tied to the calendar. Either way, habit-building can occur at any time of the year. What matters most is that you're ready to start.

When making any behavioral change, the first step is identifying a change that truly matters to you. Once you’ve established a meaningful behavior you’d like to add (or remove), the next step is to simplify the process and remove any distractions. This is where Coach Pat Flynn’s concept of a “Pirate Map” can help.

A Pirate Map is a straightforward, actionable plan that outlines the clearest steps to your goal. It’s about focusing on a few simple tasks to keep you on track. The key is simplicity.

For example, if your goal is to establish a consistent bedtime, your Pirate Map might look like this:

• Turn off all devices (phone, computer, etc.) one hour before bedtime.

• Avoid stressors, such as difficult conversations, reading the news, doing work, etc., during that hour.

• Be in bed 30 minutes before your desired sleep time.

Notice how there are only three steps, which are all specific and clear. Each step also needs to be realistic and achievable for you. If, for instance, you think meditating before bed sounds good in theory but you know you’ll procrastinate and get to bed later, leave it off the map. The key is to create a plan that you can stick to consistently and with minimal friction.

To create your own Pirate Map, start by identifying a goal you care about. If you’re unsure, here are some ideas:

• Adding more walking to your daily routine.

• Improving your sleep schedule.

• Building strength and improving your mobility.

• Journaling for 5 minutes before starting your day.

• Learning what to do at the gym.

Once you decide what you’d like to focus on, try to make this goal as straightforward as possible. Then pick two to four actionable steps you can take to achieve it. Lastly, rinse and repeat! If your goal is to improve your fitness practice in any way, and you’d like some help, please feel free to reach out.