Why Smart People Don't Create Goals Anymore

Introduction

• Speaker shares experience of having goals but not achieving them.
• Frustration with traditional goal setting despite following self-help advice.

Discovery of a New Approach

• Meeting a successful friend who doesn't set traditional goals.
• Friend's success attributed to using systems instead of goals.
• Speaker's realization and subsequent success using systems over goals.

Understanding Systems vs. Goals

Goals

• Goals provide direction but lack specific actions.
• Example: Wanting to lose 20 lbs without actionable steps.

Systems

• Systems are actionable steps that lead to achieving goals.
• Example: Prepping meals, daily walks to support weight loss.
• Systems as the vehicle to reach destinations set by goals.

Personal Story of Implementing Systems

• Attempted goal: Start an online business with revenue targets.
• Shifted to a system: Regular research, client connections, and service improvement.
• Success followed by focusing on daily actions, not just results.

Advantages of Systems

1. Stress-Free: No need to worry about arbitrary numbers, just follow the system.
2. Habit Formation: Systems become ingrained, like brushing teeth.
3. Reliability: Systems work even on off days, unlike motivation-dependent goals.

Example of a Productivity System

• Previous vague goal: "Be more productive."
• New system: Specific morning routine leading to automatic productivity.

Importance of Goals and Systems

• Goals set direction (e.g., driving to Los Angeles).
• Systems are the means (car, fuel, driving) to reach that destination.

Creating Effective Systems

1. Start Small: Begin with tiny, manageable steps.
   • E.g., Write 50 words or do one push-up daily.
2. Consistency Over Intensity: Regular small actions trump occasional large efforts.
3. Track Systems: Focus on maintaining daily routines rather than end results.

Practical Application

• Identify a struggling goal and devise a small system to support it.
• Recognize the distinction between goals (direction) and systems (progress).

Conclusion

• Successful individuals focus on systems to achieve goals.
• Encourage making personal growth systems a habit.
• Call to action: Like, subscribe, and share the message for greater impact.