Productivity / Growth Mindset

Strategy for 2024 to Make More Progress Than 99% of People

Your need for more

Zohvib
Change Your Mind Change Your Life
4 min readJul 23, 2024

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Photo by Sebastian Pociecha on Unsplash

Every year, millions of people set ambitious goals.

But here’s the kicker: most of them never achieve them. They get stuck in the same rut, doing the same things, and then wonder why their lives haven’t changed.

So, what’s the secret sauce? How do you become part of the 1% who actually make significant progress?

The answer isn’t in some magical productivity hack or a mystical morning routine.

It’s about a strategy that cuts through the BS and gets you real results.

Let’s dive in.

Step #1: Prioritizing

Here’s the hard truth: You can’t do everything.

You might think you can juggle ten projects at once, but let’s be honest — you’ll end up dropping most of them.

So, what’s the solution?

Ruthless prioritization…

> Identify your top three goals

Pick three goals that matter most to you. Not ten, not five — just three.

These should be the ones that, if achieved, will make the biggest impact on your life.

Write them down. Make them your mantra.

> Ditch the rest

This is where it gets tough.

You need to cut out the fluff. Anything that doesn’t serve your top three goals needs to go.

It’s time to Marie Kondo your life — does this task spark progress?

No? Then it’s out.

Step #2: Deep-Work

In a world obsessed with multitasking, the 1% know that deep work is the real game-changer.

Deep work means uninterrupted, focused time on a single task.

It’s when you produce your best work and make the most progress.

> Schedule it like a boss

Block out specific times in your calendar for deep work.

Treat these blocks like sacred meetings with yourself. No distractions, no interruptions.

This is your time to get sh*t done.

> Guard it with your life

Turn off notifications, put your phone on do-not-disturb, and let everyone know that you’re not to be disturbed.

This might sound harsh, but it’s necessary.

Protect your deep work time fiercely.

Step #3: Accountability System

Most people fail because they have no one holding them accountable.

When left to our own devices, we tend to slack off. But when we have someone to answer to, we’re more likely to stick to our commitments.

> Find an accountability partner

This could be a friend, a mentor, or a coach. Someone who will call you out on your excuses and push you to stay on track.

Meet regularly to discuss your progress and set new goals.

> Track your progress

Keep a daily log of what you’ve accomplished.

It doesn’t have to be fancy — a simple notebook or a digital app will do.

The key is to review your progress regularly and adjust your strategy as needed.

Step #4: Saying No

Saying yes to everything is a surefire way to spread yourself too thin.

The 1% know that saying no is one of the most powerful tools in their arsenal.

> Set boundaries

Decide in advance what you will and won’t do. This applies to work, social engagements, and even family obligations.

Your time and energy are precious — use them wisely.

> Practice polite refusal

You don’t have to be a jerk about it. Learn to say no politely but firmly.

“I’d love to help, but I’m focusing on my priorities right now.”

Most people will respect your honesty and determination.

Step #5: Invest in Yourself

The best investment you can make is in your own growth and development.

The 1% understand this and continuously seek ways to improve themselves.

> Continuous learning

Commit to learning something new every day.

Read books, take online courses, attend seminars — whatever it takes to keep growing.

The more you learn, the more you’ll achieve.

> Self-care isn’t optional

Your physical and mental health are non-negotiable. Exercise regularly, eat well, get enough sleep, and take time to relax and recharge.

You can’t make progress if you’re burnt out.

Step #6: Imperfection

Perfectionism is the enemy of progress.

The 1% know that taking imperfect action is better than doing nothing at all. Don’t wait for the perfect moment or the perfect plan — just start.

> Embrace failure

Failure is part of the process. Every setback is a learning opportunity.

The 1% don’t fear failure — they welcome it and use it to grow stronger.

> Iterate and improve

Take action, learn from the results, and then improve.

Rinse and repeat.

This iterative process is how you make consistent progress and eventually achieve your goals.

Step #7: Company

The people you spend the most time with have a massive impact on your success.

The 1% choose their company wisely.

> Find your tribe

Surround yourself with people who inspire you, challenge you, and support your goals.

These are the people who will lift you up and push you to be your best.

> Cut toxic ties

If someone is dragging you down or holding you back, it’s time to distance yourself.

This might be difficult, but it’s necessary for your growth.

Be the 1%

Making more progress than 99% of people isn’t about being smarter or more talented — it’s about being strategic and relentless.

Follow these 7 steps, and you’ll be unstoppable in 2024.

It’s time to stop making excuses and start making progress.

Be the 1%.

-Zohvib

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