This Simple Equation Can Change Your Life

Photo by Roman Mager on Unsplash

If there’s one equation I think we should all remember in life, it’s this:

Your Input = Your Output.

Programmers have a saying: “Garbage In, Garbage Out.”

Well, that applies to humans as well.

You Are Being Brainwashed

We are all controlled and shaped by our inputs.

Your beliefs, mindset, attitude, behaviour, social circle, career choice, investment strategy, relationship status, and so much more are all affected by what you allow into your mind and your life.

Here are just some of the inputs that shape us every single day:

1. Parents
2. Social circle
3. Life partner
4. Geographical location
5. Surrounding culture
6. Mass media
7. Social media
8. Entertainment
9. Events you attend
10. Content you consume

These all have a huge impact on shaping our beliefs, our behaviours, and ultimately our results.

So What Can We Do?

The great news is that if you’re unhappy with the outputs in your life, all you need to do is change your inputs. You have the power, and responsibility, to choose what inputs you allow to shape you. Your job is to be intentional with choosing your inputs based on the outputs you want to create.

Want to be happier? Surround yourself with inputs that that inspire happiness.

Want to be more disciplined? Surround yourself with inputs that inspire discipline.

Want to be more successful, improve your relationships, be kinder, learn about investing, get into shape, or be more thoughtful? All you need is to surround yourself with the right inputs to program your mind towards these goals.

We change through immersion.

Taking Control of Your Inputs

So, what are some examples of inputs you can control that will support your goals? Here are some ideas to get your started:

1. Read more books about your field of interest
2. Engage in supportive online communities
3. Talk to people about what you’re interested in. Start meaningful conversations about the things you want to bring into your life.
4. Study, research, and learn all you can about what you want to be, do, or have.
5. Listen to podcasts
6. Watch YouTube videos
7. Follow blogs
8. Join mastermind groups
9. Participate in seminars or events

You get the idea. The goal is to surround yourself with the right inputs so that you start to program yourself for the success you seek.

In short, if you’re unhappy with your output, whether it be health, creativity, business, or relationships, the first thing you should do is look at what inputs you are allowing in to your life. Then, ask yourself: are these inputs moving me closer to, or further away from my goals?

What we allow into our lives affects us more than we realize.

It’s time we take control, and become intentional about the inputs we allow into our lives.

“Problems of output are problems of input.”

– Austin Kleon

* This post was inspired by Austin Kleon‘s writings (here, and here) and in his fantastic book, Steal Like an Artist.