Focus on systems rather than goals from "summary" of Atomic Habits by James Clear
When most people set out to make a change in their lives, they typically start by setting a goal. They say things like, "I want to lose 20 pounds," or "I want to double my income." Goals are the desired results that we imagine achieving in the future. But the problem with goals is that they are focused on the outcome rather than the process. And as I always say, you do not rise to the level of your goals, you fall to the level of your systems.
This is where the concept of focusing on systems rather than goals comes into play. Systems are the processes that lead to the desired outcomes. They are the daily habits, routines, and rituals that you perform consistently over time. The idea is that if you can build a system that supports your desired outcomes, the results will take care of themselves.
For example, if your goal is to run a marathon, you could focus on setting a goal to run 26.2 miles. But if you focus instead on building a system of running three times a week and gradually increasing your mileage, you are more likely to achieve your goal. Systems are about creating sustainable change by focusing on the small daily actions that lead to long-term success.
When you focus on systems, you shift your mindset from being goal-oriented to being process-oriented. Instead of being fixated on the end result, you become more mindful of the daily actions you need to take to get there. This approach not only makes it easier to stay motivated and consistent but also allows you to enjoy the journey rather than just the destination.
By focusing on systems rather than goals, you are able to create lasting change in your life. You are no longer reliant on willpower or motivation to achieve your desired outcomes. Instead, you have a reliable system in place that guides your actions and leads you toward success. So, if you want to make a meaningful change in your life, stop setting goals and start building systems that support your desired outcomes.
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