the one habit you need: how to set systems (vs goals) ft. tidy with me

Summary

This video discusses the importance of building systems over setting goals for long-term productivity and personal growth. Using insights from Scott Adams' and James Clear's books, the speaker explains how systems create sustainable progress, while goals focus on future achievements. The video provides steps to develop systems, using a personal example of keeping a tidy space. By identifying the current and desired states, addressing the gap, and setting actionable plans, viewers can apply this method to various aspects of life, like health or relationships. The speaker emphasizes continuous refinement, adjusting systems to stay motivated and focused.

Takeaways

• 😀 Systems are more effective than goals because they focus on daily habits rather than waiting for future outcomes.
• 📖 A system is a process you follow regularly, while a goal is a specific achievement you aim for in the future.
• 💡 Systems help increase your chances of long-term happiness by creating consistent routines.
• 🏠 Keeping a clean space can be improved by developing a system for tidiness, not just setting a goal to clean periodically.
• 🧠 Identifying both your current and desired states helps you understand where you are and where you want to go.
• ❓ Reflecting on why you want to achieve something helps keep you motivated and focused.
• 🔄 Regularly assess and adjust your systems to make sure they align with your evolving needs and goals.
• 📝 Examples of effective systems include writing down things you're grateful for daily, taking small steps towards health goals, and prioritizing meaningful relationships.
• 🚶‍♂️ Make small, actionable daily changes, such as walking more, to close the gap between your current and desired state.
• 🔧 Continuous refinement of your systems is key to maintaining progress and growth over time.

Q & A

What is the main concept the video discusses?

The video discusses the importance of creating systems instead of setting hard goals for long-term productivity, peace, and calm.

How does the video define the difference between goals and systems?

According to Scott Adams and James Clear, goals are specific objectives you aim to achieve in the future, while systems are regular practices that improve your odds of success and happiness over time.

Why are systems considered more effective than goals for long-term success?

Systems focus on consistent, ongoing actions that improve your chances of long-term success, whereas goals are focused on a specific outcome that may or may not be achieved.

Can you provide an example of a system versus a goal mentioned in the video?

A goal might be to clean your space once every two weeks, but a system would be to consistently tidy up by putting things back in their proper place daily to maintain a clean space.

What is the 'current state vs. desired state' gap analysis mentioned in the video?

It’s a framework where you assess your current situation, define your ideal future state, and then analyze the gap between the two to create a system to close that gap.

Why does the speaker want to keep their space clean, and what is preventing them from achieving this?

The speaker wants to keep their space clean to reduce stress and create a calming environment. The gap exists because they have too many things, lack a system for organizing them, and don't make cleaning a priority.

What are the four steps the speaker mentions for creating systems?

The four steps involve identifying the current state, defining the desired state, understanding why the gap exists, and creating actionable steps to close the gap.

How does identifying your 'why' help in building effective systems?

Identifying a powerful 'why' keeps you motivated and focused, acting as your 'North Star' to guide you through challenges and help you stay on track even when circumstances are difficult.

What are some examples of systems the speaker suggests for different areas of life?

Examples include limiting sugar intake for fitness, leaving your phone out of sight during meals to improve relationships, and writing down three things you're grateful for each morning to promote calm.

What is the importance of continuous assessment and adjustment in maintaining systems?

It's important to regularly assess and adjust your systems to ensure they remain effective and aligned with your goals, as well as to celebrate small wins along the way.