Goals Are For Losers.

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Systems or goals, which is better?

I think not. Consider the pros and cons of goals verses systems.  I think you will agree with me.

 Goals

Pros: Well defined, specific, easily time limited, easily measured.

Cons: What do you do if they are met.? What do you do if time goes by and they are not met?  It's easy to rationalize waiting to test. Inflexible.

Systems

Pros: No time limit, usually a lifestyle change, flexible, adaptable to circumstances, systems become habits.

Cons: No time limit, no well defined tests.
 
What comes after you test your goal?  Better to shoot for a process or a system. Find a system that you like instead of a goal. For example, you might say to yourself, "I am a runner."  "I will run regularly."  Each day, you get up and know that running is a process, a part of your being, that you will want to do. Its the same thing if you are, say, a painter. When you wake up, you just know that you want to paint something today. This will help with motivation.  With a system, it doesn't make much difference if you skip a day here and there.  You still have your system, even if your test must be delayed.

Another thing about goals is that they are usually only temporary. It can be hard to know if you are ready to test your goal. If you do test it, then what?  Will you have adopted a healthy habit? It has been said that "Goals are for losers."  This may be overly harsh but the sentiment is right on.  A system is likely to change your behavior for the better.  A goal, even if met, requires ongoing motivation to change your behavior.

I have to give credit to Scott Adams, of Dilbert fame, from whom I first heard of this approach.  Next year, try setting a New Year's resolution to follow a system instead if setting a goal.  You might be pleasantly surprised.

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