“Jerry is the most self-disciplined person I’ve ever known.” That’s what Jerry’s wife says, and everybody who knows Jerry would agree. He checks everything off his to-do list every day. He goes to bed and gets up at the same time every day. He works out, and he eats right.
The only thing Jerry doesn’t do is finish his book. You’ve probably known someone like him. They looked like they should be able to accomplish anything they set out to do, but they never get the big projects done.
People like Jerry don’t understand the delicate dance of discipline and goals. Jerry’s got the daily discipline down pat. You do those things every day with no end in sight. What Jerry is not good at is goal-focused discipline.
Goal-Focused Discipline
Goal-focused discipline has an end in mind. There’s an ultimate goal, like writing a book, and intermediate milestones that tell you how you’re doing. Goal-focused discipline helps you stay on track and move forward. It helps you avoid the temptation to take a day off or the fleeting temptation of chasing squirrels.
The Big Why
Writing a book is hard work. Not only that, it’s hard work day after day and week after week for months or years. You’re more likely to keep going when you know why it’s worth it. That’s your Big Why.
Choreographing the Dance
Start with your Big Why. This is about more than writing your book. It’s about more than business. Your Big Why is the kind of life you want to lead. It usually includes relationships, where you want to live, and how you use your time. It’s a statement of what you’re working for.
Every choice you make, and every goal you set should point toward the life you want. Every project you do should move you closer to that life.
When you start a project, like writing a book, ask if it will help you achieve your Big Why. Then, plan your project. Include your milestones and the actions you must take. Measure progress frequently.
I suggest that clients measure their progress daily and make a review of their actions part of their weekly, monthly, and quarterly reviews. When you do that, self-discipline and habits can kick in to help you finish things.
Decide what you need to do and how you should spend your time every day to progress toward your long-term goal and the life you want. Then, track your activity and your progress.
Commit to completing daily goals and weekly goals in service of your Big Why. That’s how you and Jerry can finally finish that book.
