As we head into minicon season, remember that it’s the small, consistent habits that will build up to powerful changes. These micro-habits can improve your confidence, communication, and business knowledge, which can all make the difference in competition. Here are some ways to ‘Go the Extra!’ this year: 

1. Attend Meetings 

We all know that sometimes making time for meetings can be difficult, however chapter meetings are one of the easiest ways to stay accountable and informed. These meetings will keep you up-to-date on deadlines, new opportunities, and chapter events like fundraisers and social media challenges. Through these events, you will be able to build a network and friendships with other members. Additionally, participating in meetings and events may be helpful if you are interested in applying for chapter, district, or state leadership positions in the future.  

2. Stay Informed

Industry trends are patterns in new technologies, market conditions, business practices, and customer preferences that shape the business world. For businesses, understanding these trends help to plan for the future and remain competitive in their industry. For you, it’s an opportunity to elevate your roleplay and presentations with real world examples. Spend 15 minutes reading or watching business news a couple times a week to grow your awareness!

3. Set Mini-Goals 

Setting small daily or weekly goals will allow you to make major progress without the stress of last-minute cramming. Whether it be practicing one roleplay a week or studying business terms for 10 minutes daily on Quizlet, simple goals can make a vast difference if you are intentional.

After every practice session, take a moment to reflect: 

• What did you do well?
• What can be improved?
• Implement these next time you practice! 

These quick evaluations will build self-awareness and help you track your performance!

4. Ask for Feedback 

When you practice presentations and roleplays with others, whether it be a fellow member or your advisor, always ask for feedback. Each person, with their unique background and skills, can offer a recommendation that you have never thought of before. Write down the feedback, revisit it later, and track your progress. The combination of external feedback with your personal reflections will accelerate your growth and confidence. 

5. Seek Advice

One of the best ways to improve is getting advice from experienced competitors. Utilize resources like the monthly CA DECA Champ Camps, YouTube videos, and other DECA resources to learn from previous SCDC and ICDC winners. Pay attention to their guidance on content, structure, and soft skills and then apply their strategies to your presentations!

Remember, consistent and focused efforts can go a long way. Elevate your DECA skills with these 5 habits!

By Rajvi Shah/NorCal DECA Vice President of Leadership