Begin with what would work best. Hold the "but what about" for later.

Focus on what you have to do, not how much. "How much" will come later as the intensity can be scaled, but the real thing doesn't have substitutes.

The hardest things end up becoming the easiest, once you've fully committed to a pursuit.

When you've chosen to commit, make it a priority. Put it first in your calendar. Expect frustration and obstacles. You will get stronger.

Much of success boils down to doing the real thing and not an imitation of the real thing. 

For example, if you want to learn a language: Start with full immersion. Speak from day one only in the language, except for work, friends, and family. The alternat...

Starting with what would work, you now ask how you could make it possible.

Maybe you want to learn a language, but the real thing is out of reach because you're stuck at home. You want to work in a real firm, but they won't hire you.

Now is the time...

The hard way forces you to ask if you are willing to put in the effort to do it.

Sometimes the answer is no. The cost is too high, or other obligations take priority. No is a valid answer. Better to say no now, and not let it eat away at your resolve. But if your answer is yes, you know ho...