A productive routine can lead to good habits, a bucket of luck, and a life of happiness. Success often trails people that are happy, talented, smart working (not necessarily hard working), and above all, connected. Reaching this place can be very difficult for some people, while others seems to be born with all of these things. Most people have the ability to reach their potential, but it takes a strict regimen or daily practice.

I recently came across an article by James Altucher about a daily practice he does every day in order to stay on top of his game. He’s gone through many struggling phases in his life where he has lost everything: millions of dollars, his family, his friends but later came back stronger, in part due to his daily practice.

He talks about having four legs to his practice: Physical, Emotional, Mental, and Spiritual. It’s really all about not over exerting yourself in one area and staying balanced between all four. His theory, based on his life experience, is that if you are weak on one or more of these legs, you will have difficulty mastering the remaining ones. This imbalance leads to chaos and you’ll lose your luck, and quite possibly your success.

I found his particular daily practice to be the most interesting over other knowledge-centric practices because he incorporates other activities that are often neglected by entrepreneurs and people involved in early stage startups! For example, it’s very easy to skip workouts due to sitting at a desk coding all day, or avoiding spirituality because you’re stressed out. It is vital to make your life is balanced if you actually want to expand your network, attract some luck, and be successful. Otherwise, you’re just playing the lottery for success!

In honor of James’ daily practice, I created a chart that can be printed out and posted on a nearby wall in your home or office. After you have read the post about his daily practice, the chart can be used to remind you of your daily responsibilities. It doesn’t track your progress or nag you to do them (that might be a future article and adjoining iPhone/iPad app!), but it will keep you on track as it serves as a visual reminder and “cheat sheet.” Download the PDF below.

Download the Daily Practice Chart (.PDF)

You’re free to use it as you please, including posting it on a website or forum, but please do include some attribution.