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The Magic of Committing to a Specific Goal
The Dangerous Mistake We All Make
We think constantly about our vague desires, without committing to a specific task.
We go to the gym to “work out” without trying to become better at something specific. We wish that we were more creative, but never work on a particular project.
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The Dangerous Mistake We All Make
We think constantly about our vague desires, without committing to a specific task.
We go to the gym to “work out” without trying to become better at something specific. We wish that we were more creative, but never work on a particular project.
Clarity Leads to Direction
Commitment to performing a specific task is often the only difference between our results and our desires.
When you commit to a task, then the next step is obvious.
Do you want to take a picture of the Golden Gate Bridge at sunrise? Next step: find a good spot. You've found a good spot? Next step: wake up early and drive there.
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The foundation of creativity
Conflict may be the foundation of creativity. Because it exposes us to a different point of view, it makes us challenge our assumptions, it takes us out of our comfort zone and it makes us uncomfo...
Creativity and familiarity
Our brains are wired to create familiar patterns so that we don’t have to re-learn everything over and over again. This is why new ways of thinking are often met with resistance.
But creativity asks us to change. Because that's what creativity is - presenting ideas that don’t conform to those patterns.
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Albert Einstein
The frames we use to see the world
The frames we create for what we experience both inform and limit the way we think. And most of the time we are not aware of the frames we are using.
Being able to question and shift your frame of reference is an important key to enhancing your imagination because it reveals completely different insights.
Reframing problems
You can practice reframing by physically or mentally changing your point of view, by seeing the world from others’ perspectives, and by asking questions that begin with “why.”
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Goal setting
Is the act of selecting a target or objective you wish to achieve.
Goal setting is not only about choosing the rewards you want to enjoy, but also the costs you are willing to pay t...
The Rudders and Oars Metaphor
- Your goals are like the rudder on a small rowboat. They set the direction and determine where you go.
- If you commit to one goal, then the rudder stays put and you continue moving forward.
- If you flip-flop between goals, then the rudder moves all around and it is easy to find yourself rowing in circles.
- If the rudder is your goal, then the oars are your process for achieving it. While the rudder determines your direction, it is the oars that determine your progress.
Example: If you’re a writer, your goal is to write a book. Your system is the writing schedule that you follow each week.
How to Set Goals You'll Actually Follow
- Ruthlessly Eliminate Your Goals. Consistently prune and trim down your goals. If you can muster the courage to prune away a few of your goals, then you create the space you need for the remaining goals to fully blossom.
- Stack Your Goals. Make a specific plan for when, where and how you will perform this."Networking: After I return from my lunch break, I will send one email to someone I want to meet."
- Set an Upper Bound. Don't focus on the minimum threshold. Instead of saying, “I want to make at least 10 sales calls today.” rather say, “I want to make at least 10 sales calls today, but not more than 20.”
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