Like so many of us I was taught about SMART goals early on in my career. Since then I have learned, and experienced, how limiting they can be.
For a start, achievable goals don’t get you thinking out of your comfort zone, and that’s where the magic happens.
Over the years I have seen something more impactful than goals, that in my experience and that of my clients, creates more sustained success.
Systems.
“You don’t rise to the level of your goals. You fall to the level of your systems.” James Clear, Atomic Habits
Systems give you a solid foundation to create from.
After a motorbike accident I struggled to get back into regular running. For some reason I wanted to achieve a level of fitness before restarting my running system, a training programme I follow.
After about three months of failing to go running consistently I had an insight. Why can’t I start the programme now? It’s tailored to where you are currently and progresses you from there. There is no minimum fitness requirement.
So I did.
Since then I’ve been running far more frequently, seeing tremendous progress and feeling far more motivated. I don’t have a goal, it’s the system that is moving me forward, in ways beyond what I expected.
Goals can be demotivating when you feel you are so far away from them. When you are demotivated you tend not to take inspired action.
James Clear’s point is that goals are good for setting a direction. Systems are best for making progress.
Systems create a new way of BEing each day. This inspires us day by day. It is our being that drives our behaviour.
What system can you create the supports one of your goals?
Russell walked away from a successful career in corporate IT management and business change to follow his passion for people. Russell is a state-of-mind specialist, helping individuals and teams create the environment for greater well-being, bigger results, and a clearer purpose.
For more information on Russell and his work, see www.russell-davis.com.
