Well Designed Systems Always Win

Imagine creating a structure that will make reaching your goals not just easier but POSSIBLE. 

We’ve previously investigated vision, action, attention, growth mindset, and habits. Now, let’s wrap systems around all those areas.

Why do systems matter? James Clear concisely explains this in his book Atomic Habits:

“Goals can provide direction and even push you forward in the short-term, but eventually a well-designed system will always win. Having a system is what matters. Committing to the process is what makes the difference.”

I personally love systems because they keep me on the track I chose and out of the enticing field of shiny new ideas, which I can get lost in quite easily. Think of a system as a combination of several elements that you want to do on a regular basis.

For example, my solid workday morning routine looks like this: Wake-up, put on workout clothes, make coffee, stretch while it’s brewing, drink a cup of coffee while journaling, exercise, shower & dress, eat breakfast, take a cup of coffee out to my office.

To get you started on your system, here are some thought-provoking questions that will serve you in designing your own.

First, ask yourself, Where would a system help me?

Note the areas that come to mind. Then, ask yourself the below questions relating to the areas that came to mind and capture what you notice.

Morning System - How do you want to start your day?

• How do you want to feel? For example, energized, inspired, peaceful.

• Is there something you’ve done in the past that you loved doing and got out of the habit?

• Is morning a good time for you to exercise? If not you can slide it into another part of the day.

• What do you wish your morning routine looked like? Don’t worry about committing to anything right now, simply be curious about what you want.

Mid-Day System - What would energize you during the day? Here are some ideas for taking breaks during the day:

• Use The Pomodoro Technique, a time management method based on 25-minute stretches of focused work broken by 5-minute breaks. 

• Listening to a 5-20 minute guided meditation during a lunch break. (I use a free app called Insight Timer.)

• For 5-15 minutes, take a walk, read, listen to a podcast, watch a video, etc.

• Take a full 1-hour lunch break and bring delicious food from home to enjoy.

• Eat healthy, energizing snacks.

Evening System - What’s most important to you in the evening?

• Think about family, friends, learning, exercise, relaxation, eating well, sleeping well, etc. Create a system to support yourself.

Now that you have some ideas to start putting your system in place, here are 3 Steps to Start Your System:

1. Fend off overwhelm by choosing one section during your day that would benefit most from a system.

2. Be courageous and daring…write your system down to get started.

3. Do it. Adjust it. Don’t give up. Let it evolve into your own sweet system that will serve you best.

I’ve noticed that my coaching clients who are leaders almost always want to build new systems for themselves. This is also true for teams who commit to actions that will strengthen their connection, productivity, and happiness.

Want to talk about how you, your team, and/or your organization can grow? Book a chat here.