When I managed a high performing sales team for a large technology company, other managers would brag about their recently hired star employee who was a “rockstar”.
I would congratulate the manager on having a newbie get off to a good start. Then I’d say, come see me in 6 months and tell me how they’re doing.
By the time 6 months had passed, most of these “rockstars” has settled into a routine that led to them being an average performer.
I’m a terrible predictor of the future. But I’ve observed enough human behavior to know that anybody can do just about anything for 3 months.
Strict dieting and an intense exercise routine? For 90 days the dieter will drop loads of weight, stick to a strict diet and vow that he is a changed man. Then pizza, steak hoagies, fries and dessert start creeping into his diet and the pounds come back.
The new hire who arrived early, worked late and never slacked off? After three months of burning the candle at both ends, he sees others slacking off who earn more money and see their families at night instead of working unpaid overtime.
The entire US in total lockdown in response to the corona pandemic? After three months we had BLM marches, tag along looters, armed counter protestors, and general anger and bitterness from being cooped up for 3 months while making no meaningful progress toward long term safety and security.
The next time you see someone make a complete change of behavior, mark it down and check back in 6 months.
Long lasting change requires drastic action followed by a committed daily grind. Most people will give up after about 3 months.