Chapter 1: The Common Pitfalls of Goal Setting

If you belong to the vast majority who struggle to adhere to their goals, this message is tailored for you. I share this same experience. In my quest for improvement, I’ve explored numerous resources: newsletters, blogs, and countless YouTube videos. Yesterday, I stumbled upon a crucial insight.

Before we dive deeper, take a moment to reflect on your experiences in 2023. Now, let’s proceed.

Years ago, while I was employed in the banking sector, I had an enlightening chat with a director. I inquired, "What do I need to do to get a promotion?" (I didn't actually call him "bro," though.)

His response was eye-opening: "You must demonstrate the capability to perform at the higher level before you can receive the title. Promotions come after you’ve already been doing the job."

He was absolutely correct. This principle guided me through my corporate journey and helped me ascend the professional ladder. However, I momentarily lost sight of this lesson—until yesterday.

While driving back from the Bondi to Coogee walk, I tuned into an Ali Abdaal podcast on Spotify. Nathan Barry, a guest on the show, shared a profound thought: "Setting goals alone is insufficient; you need to identify who you must become to realize them."

This simple yet powerful statement jolted me from my reverie, prompting me to pull over and jot down my thoughts. Here’s what I’ve outlined so far.

Goal #1 for the upcoming year: I aspire to achieve a six-pack and maintain my body fat below 12% for at least six months. But who do I need to become to accomplish this?

• I must learn to prepare nutritious meals.
• I need to limit my social outings and decline invitations to parties, avoiding cake at celebrations and resisting home-cooked family meals.
• I should commit to training my abs more than twice weekly.

Am I ready to embrace this transformation?

The answer is no. I can manage the third point, but the first two don't align with my priorities. Therefore, Goal #1 doesn’t pass the test.

Let’s try another one.

Goal #2: Complete my book by the end of next year.

What must I become to achieve this?

• I need to be a dedicated researcher and reader, discerning what resonates and what doesn’t.
• Developing a habit of daily writing is essential—no breaks allowed.
• I must acquire skills in designing an attention-grabbing cover and title, which entails learning about copyright and graphic design.

Am I willing to transform into this person?

Absolutely! This sounds exciting, and I’m already invested in all three aspects.

Now, it’s your turn.

If you’re reading this on your phone, open your notes app and answer these questions. If you’re on your computer, you know what to do. Don’t continue until you’ve completed these prompts.

What’s your Goal #1? [[your answer]]

Who do you need to become to achieve it? [[your answer]]

Great job!

Now, take a moment to pause, because there’s more to consider.

In the podcast, Ali posed an intriguing question that I’ve also heard from Derek Sivers: “What would you pursue if you knew you would fail?”

Reflect on the qualities you aspire to embody—would you still chase this goal even knowing you might not succeed?

To me, this question is the secret ingredient—the essential element in achieving fulfillment. Without it, you risk crafting an idealistic scenario.

The reality is that challenges and obstacles are inevitable. However, if you value the journey of transformation more than the outcome, you’ll be just fine.

For me, Goal #2 remains relevant. I enjoy learning these skills, and I have no intention of stopping. Does your goal still resonate?

If not, seek another path. The real joy lies in the experiences and skills gained along the way. There are no shortcuts to success.

That wraps it up for today. Here are those questions again:

• What’s your goal for next year?
• Who do you need to become to achieve it?
• Would you still pursue this even if you knew you would fail?

Take your future seriously and invest time in answering these questions.

Harry

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Chapter 2: The Power of Mindset in Goal Achievement

Explore the reasons why traditional goal setting often falls short and learn how to overcome these barriers.

Discover why setting personal goals is essential to avoid living a repetitive life and how to effectively implement them.