Systems > Goals

As leaders, succeeding is often our top priority. However, setting goals alone is not enough. Instead, we need to focus on building effective systems and processes that support our goals and align with our values. Both personal and professional.

Outside of the extensive work by Peter Senge on systems awareness and thinking, in the recent past James Clear and Naval Ravikant, have emphasised the importance of systems over goals. Clear suggests that "We don’t rise to the level of our goals, we fall to the level of our systems," highlighting the need to focus on developing effective systems that support our goals. Ravikant echoes this sentiment, arguing that "You want to build systems that are so good that you don't have to trust yourself."

So, what exactly are systems, and how can you develop effective systems that support your goals and align with your values? A system is a set of processes or routines that help you achieve a specific outcome. For example, a system for ensuring you work out first thing in the morning would be to set out your gym clothes in the night, keep your gym shoes by your bed and leave your alarm clock in the bathroom where you can hear it but need to move some distance to switch it off :) 

To develop effective systems, start by identifying your key goals and values - business or otherwise. What do you want to achieve, and what values do you want your company/life to embody? This will help you develop systems and processes that align with your overarching vision and priorities.

Next, start small and focus on one or two key routines or processes that align with your goals and values. Gradually build momentum and establish these routines as habits before adding more to your system. Be flexible and willing to make adjustments along the way, as not every system works for everyone. Continuously evaluate and adjust your systems and processes as needed. Give things at least 3 weeks before evaluating effectiveness.

Finally, celebrate small wins along the way. Acknowledging progress and celebrating small achievements can help boost morale, increase motivation, and provide a sense of accomplishment that can propel you forward.

Systems thinking is a powerful approach to personal and business development, and by prioritising systems over goals, you can create a framework for consistent progress and long-term success. By taking these steps, we can begin to shift our focus from goal-setting to system-building and develop effective systems and processes that support our personal or business goals and values.