There’s a great book called ‘Atomic Habits’ by James Clear and in it he says, ‘You do not rise to the level of your goal, you fall to the level of your systems’. To me this is a profound truth. If we get the system right, it is something we can replicate time and time again as we successfully move from one goal to another. But so many people focus all their attention on their goal and forget about what system they need to achieve it. As a result they can experience a disorganised, nerve-wracking and costly lurch toward failure.
In life as in business, surely we are here to enjoy the journey not the end result? It’s the same with a goal. Set the system and both the experience and the result will be marvellous.
So what is ‘The system’?
When people have set themselves a goal the thing they think what actions they need to take, fair enough but, in my view, actions are only half the story. The thoughts in your head make up the other half because achieving goals is all in the mind.
What thoughts are you having on a regular basis and are they holding you back? Once you recognise these you can then create new thoughts that will support your goal. Then make sure you think those thoughts every day and these will soon become your beliefs. A new habit is just a recurring thought that becomes a repeated behaviour. When you have a raft of new supporting behaviours and beliefs you can apply them to your actions and go on to achieve your goal.
So, first observe your limiting thoughts , then develop empowering beliefs, then identify and carry out the actions and the goal will be yours. Remember, there’s no point in going on the journey if you’re not gonna to enjoy the ride!