The original Twilight Zone series is a masterpiece. They made 156 episodes featuring countless actors including Burgess Meredith and William Shatner - two of my favorites. A while back, I set a goal for myself: exercise on the treadmill every day while watching an episode. I’d do this for 156 days in a row. And I’d post a blog post about a self-development lesson I gleaned from the episode. The first two days were awesome. On the third day, we lost power and I didn’t exercise, Then came bunch of other excuses.
I severely underestimated the commitment required to achieve my goal. We often don’t realize what will be required. My goal was simple and clear. enough. It was exciting and far-reaching. I was all in! But ultimately, I exerted on 1.28% of the effort required to fulfill the goal! Two divided by 156 = .0128 and when multiply by 100 to get our percentage.
This isn’t to say I can’t hop back on and continue with my goal. I’m always inspired by addicts who display the strength to start a new streak.
Grant Cardone has an exciting book called The 10X Rule: The Only Difference Between Success and Failure. and his main point is that we should multiply the effort and commitment we believe is required for any worthy goal ten-fold. Your goal will take 10x more effort, 10x more time, 10x more motivation, 10x more vision, and 10x more accountability.
I attacked my Twilight Zone exercise goal with baby effort and I came up severely short. With the above formula, you can figure out the commitment needed for any goal. Seeing that measly, pitiful number of 1.28% had an effect on me. Don’t get discouraged - hop back on - but with increased resolve.
Goalsetting Links:
Grant Cardone’s Goalsetting Book - The 10X Rule
Undermining Goalsetting and Goals
Mindtools Goalsetting Insights
Kanbanize Article on Underestimating Goals for Projects
Have a friendly relationship with the journey of your goals. When your goal whips your ass, come back tougher tomorrow. I loved what Sara Safari said as a guest on my podcast regarding goals: you have to become as big as your goal or vision in order to meet it. Yes! We must monitor the pacing and effort we’re using in the pursuit of our big goals. Trevor Lohrbeer, another excellent podcast guest, talked about adjusting pacing of one’s pursuits toward goals, as well. These are vital skills you need to achieve your goals and get on track with goalsetting and goal attainment.