You'll only achieve your goals when you focus on the process (here's how)
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You'll only achieve your goals when you focus on the process (here's how)
A helpful exercise you can follow to break your large goals down to actionable steps
Making goals is exciting.
Following the steps to achieve them is another story.
With all of the motivation and energy that comes from setting a goal, there’s the uncertainty that you might not achieve it.
This usually looks like:
Set an awesome goal.
Amp yourself up to do whatever it takes to achieve said goal.
Go all-in for a few days or weeks.
Burn yourself out while comparing yourself to others.
Crush some Häagen-Dazs and rewatch The Office, reminding yourself that you can start again on Monday. Or next month.
Repeat.
What’s missing in this torturous cycle is a structured process that will actually help you reach your dreams.
By following a process that makes your next actions feel more tangible, you gain the momentum to keep moving forward.
And to do so where the ice cream and Netflix can be a healthy part the journey.
Just how it should be.
The following exercise is a great tool from Precision Nutrition you can use to help break your larger goals down into more manageable chunks.
Simplicity is a superpower.
When you find yourself becoming increasingly overwhelmed and everything seems more complex than it needs to be, simplify.
The Four Circle Exercise
Here’s how it works
Complete the form by first filling in your main outcome goal. Make sure it’s specific and realistic.
From there, break the goal down into an action you can do this month.
Then, write down an action you can do this week.
Finally, write something down that you can do today.
Process is more important than outcomes.
This is because you can control your processes.
You cannot directly control your outcomes.
By focusing on what’s in your control and making incremental improvements each day, your goal will eventually take care of itself.
And this might just be how happy you are after you crush your goals…
The thing I love about exercises like this, is that you can apply it to more areas in your life than just fitness. Life isn’t supposed to be all about that anyways.
Trying to get more customers for your business?
Looking to find a new location to set up shop?
In search of a new home?
Planning a long solo-trip across on the other side of the world?
These are all big outcomes that are achieved when broken down into smaller steps that you can do.
Now, go get it.
Most recent…
book I’ve finished
Rest, Refocus, Recharge: A Guide to Optimizing Your Life by Dr. Greg Wells
podcasts I’ve listened to
Need some support? Let’s get on a call and discuss your goals!
Book a Discovery Call today
You'll only achieve your goals when you focus on the process (here's how)
The first podcast recommendation doesn't seem to be appearing in the web-based post (it shows in email however). Here's the link!
Lex Fridman Podcast with Susan Cain: The Power of Introverts and Loneliness
https://open.spotify.com/episode/5fF6lbL309rFLEFX4e1A8Q?utm_source=substack&utm_medium=email
Great read Paul. Thanks for the advice.