Turning my stupid 2017 goals into processes
I’ve said it before: Talking about goals doesn’t get us anywhere. Processes are what get you there. Small steps move the needle.
2017 will not be my year of Personal Finance.
2017 will not be my year of Writing.
2017 will not be my year of Physical Excellence.
2017 will not be my year of Dancing.
2017 will not be my year of Coaching.
2017, instead, will be my year of taking small steps every day, every week, that produces mini-doses of results, and slowly cements the skills I need to achieve my goals.
Of course, I’m just realizing that. I already had some goals taped to my wall, which I looked at for 5 days while feeling good about myself.`
I took down my colorful post-its, threw them away, and put on new ones. Ones with processes I could follow, actions I could take, work I could do — instead of patting myself on the back.
Here are some:
Goal: Achieve physical excellence
Process: Workout somehow everyday (Run OR Krav Maga OR Bodyweight OR Swimming)
What the hell does “physical excellence” mean anyway? Those words do nothing for me, but make me feel good that I will be super lean one day.
Feeling good about myself will not make me physically excellent, but putting in a workout everyday will.
And it’s not just that. Flexibility and variety is important, because I want to enjoy what I do more than the thought of the abstract summit waiting for me in the distant future.
Goal: Write
Process: Quietly publish 5 articles per week
We all believe the next great American novel resides in our brains, and if we truly truly want it enough — one weekend, we will sit down and 20,000 words will flow out of us.
Yeah, right.
I will not share my writing on Facebook (only Twitter, where there’s no such things as Likes) until I have written 100 pieces. Otherwise, my mindset will morph into writing for the pleasure of others complimenting me, rather than the joy of expressing whatever is going on in my head.
Goal: Be a better dancer and dance more and meet people
Process: Go dance (salsa/2-step) 2 times a week
Why is dancing a goal for me? Frankly, it’s more fun, more social and less expensive, than bar-hopping. Also, it’s easier to meet and have a connection with people (read: girls) after a enjoyable dance.
The process speaks for itself — with an emphasis on classes rather than social dance in the first few weeks. It’s a process within a process.
Is there a milestone I will achieve with this? Probably not. I don’t need to.
Goal: Build reputation as hard-working and driver at work
Process: Solve problems for my manager and co-workers every day
Wow, I’m an idiot for even writing that goal. Do I want the recognition or actually being who I want people to think I am?
No, it’s about reaching out and solving people’s problems. Making them look good. Getting better at the technical and communication aspects of my full-time job. Being proud of my work.
What does that look like? To be honest, I don’t know at the moment. And that’s alright.
