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In the neverending chase of pursuing our dreams, we often hear the saying, "Rise to the level of your goals." While this notion is inspiring and well-intentioned, it may not always be the best strategy for achieving long-term success.
It leaves out a critical element. So instead, let's explore the idea of "falling to the level of your systems" and the importance of having the proper systems in place to support your goals through the creation of small, sustainable habits.
Goals and Systems
Goals are crucial, no doubt. They provide direction and motivation, but they are endpoints, not the paths that we take to get there. Goals give us something to strive for, but it's the daily action and habits we adopt that truly determine our success. This is where systems come into play.
A system is a structured approach that enables us to consistently perform small actions that, over time, lead to significant outcomes. When you have effective systems in place, you don't have to rely solely on willpower or motivation to achieve your goals. You fall into a rhythm, a routine that becomes second nature.
Let’s take the goal of getting "fit" as an example. “Rising to the level” of this goal might mean pushing yourself with intense workouts and strict diets. However, falling to the level of your systems involves creating sustainable habits like daily exercise, balanced nutrition, and proper sleep. By breaking them down, the goals become not only achievable, but also sustainable by creating a foundation that can support your day-to-day life.
Consistency is more important than intensity
The key to developing the right systems is to start small. If you want to run a marathon, start with running a mile every day. If you want to write a book, commit to writing a small amount each day. If you want to have more financial control, begin by saving a small portion of each paycheck. These small, sustainable habits accumulate and eventually lead to real noticeable results.
The same goes for your health and wellness. Make small, sustainable changes like incorporating more fruits and vegetables into your meals every day, having a glass of water every hour, or making sure to walk at least a mile a day. These can have a more significant impact on your overall health than extreme, short-term diets or fasting that are difficult to maintain.
The beauty of systems is that they adapt and evolve with you. They are not rigid like strict goal deadlines. Adjust them as needed and as things change to make it easier to navigate and adapt to all of life's twists and turns while still progressing toward your goals.
Remember that it's not about rising to the level of your goals but falling to the level of your systems. By cultivating effective systems that support your goals through small, sustainable habits, you can pave the way for lasting success.
If you've ever struggled with creating those systems, or staying consistent in pursuit of your goals, let’s chat. By working with an behavioral change specialist and accountability coach, you’ll be able to act on a tailor made plan that fits your life, accelerate your progress, have the support of a friendly face, and maximize sustainable results. You don’t have to do it alone.