We’re all moving toward something that leads to our happiness or feeling of achievement. So many of us work toward a goal tirelessly, end up disappointed with the result, then give up and fall back to the status quo (working to not fail). Not because we aren’t smart, or because we’re lazy–it’s because we’re not looking at the right next step. Instead of focusing on the desired outcome, we should try focusing on the action that leads to it.
Adrienne (my wife) decided recently that she was going to get into great shape. Like everyone, her goal was to be fit, healthy, and toned. Unlike everyone, however, that wasn’t how she measured her success. Instead, she measures her consistency that will lead to it. Waking up at 4:00 AM each morning. But that has nothing to do with getting into shape, right? Well…knowing that her goal could only be attained by committing to a consistent daily workout, her biggest failure would be not staying consistent to the action. She knew that a 4:00 AM wakeup would get her out of her comfort zone (bed) and motivate her to get into the gym.
Had Adrienne focused on the long term outcome (to be fit), a skip day would seem like no big deal. But in exercise, like most things, it’s consistent discipline that delivers results. Her focus was the measurement of the discipline (waking up at 4 AM), and the result (being fit) naturally followed.
A term in economics, “A leading indicator” is used to describe a piece of data that can be used to predict future events. If we can identify the measurable action that results in our goals, success is much more attainable.
Achievement in our lives creates happiness. Whether it’s effective sales, 100% customer satisfaction, timely deliveries, good health, financial gain, learning a new skill, etc, these are the results of consistent action. Determine what that action is, and the result will change your life.
The most powerful way to create happiness is to find purpose. The most powerful way to find purpose is to achieve.
The biggest secret many don’t realize……….
Achievement isn’t a result of brilliance, skill or luck. It’s the outcome of turning a leading indicator into a habit.
BOOM! Let’s go change the world!