Goals vs. Systems
happy new year!
I hope your 2025 is off to a great start. I've been getting organized, setting goals, and reflecting on the past year.
Last year was one of tremendous growth and change, and honestly, it pushed me to my limit.
I had a few videos go viral, and while the influx of followers is exciting and appreciated, it can also be overwhelming - especially when the trolls come. I had to learn the importance of separating online vs. real life, and how to let mean comments roll off me.
We built a house and moved in August. I was fortunate to travel to new places and saw some incredible things. My kids are growing every day and continue to amaze me.
Life is great, but I'm also really tired.
In 2025, I hope to reap the benefits of my hard work and slow the pace. I have a few travel goals, Alan and I will be celebrating our 10-year anniversary, and I'm trying to eat less meat.
Here's to everything we have done and the amazing things we will do!🥂
on my radar this week
A few things that have caught my eye, plus last week’s blog post, are linked here for you.
goals vs. systems
It’s a new year and goals are everywhere. Let’s talk about the difference between goals and systems.
As James Clear famously says, “goals are about the results you want to achieve. Systems are about the processes that lead to those results.”
Setting goals (“weight loss”) often isn’t enough to keep us motivated. Instead, focus on building effective systems and make your goals part of your identity.
To build a successful system, let’s start this week with elements of behavior change.
Identify your triggers. What behaviors trigger your undesired habits? When I’m stressed, I reach for sweets.
Make your desired habit something you crave. The more attractive a habit is, the more you’re likely to stick with it. Train your body to crave the feeling of accomplishment when you take steps toward your goal.
Simplify your habits. Shape your environment to make your habits as simple as possible. Stock your fridge with fresh food and pick your gym clothes out the night before.
Make the reward satisfying. Find something about the payoff that is very appealing to you. The bigger the reward, the more likely you are to stick with the process. As an example, aesthetics and feeling strong are big motivators for me.
your homework from me
This week, I’ll challenge you to encourage behavioral change by identifying your triggers.
Think about a habit you’d like to change. What situations are causing you to perform that habit? How can you eliminate or reduce the trigger?
Goals are necessary, but it’s your everyday process that will lead you to achieving those goals. See you next week, xo.
