I like to set goals but don't follow through

Key Concepts

• GPS Method: A goal achievement framework consisting of Goal, Plan, and System.
• Tracking: Monitoring progress towards a goal to increase motivation and likelihood of success.
• Accountability: Utilizing external mechanisms to maintain discipline and consistent action.
• Reminders: Implementing scheduled prompts to ensure goals aren’t forgotten amidst daily life.

Understanding the Action Gap: The GPS Method

The core issue presented is a disconnect between strong vision/planning skills and difficulty in taking consistent action towards goals. The speaker proposes the “GPS Method” – Goal, Plan, and System – as a solution. The individual asking the question demonstrates proficiency in the “Goal” (knowing what they want) and “Plan” (knowing how to get there) components. The primary area for improvement lies in the “System” component: establishing the daily or weekly routines necessary to execute the plan.

The System Component: Three Pillars of Action

The “System” component is broken down into three crucial elements: tracking, accountability, and reminders. These are presented not as optional additions, but as fundamental requirements for translating plans into tangible results.

1. Tracking Progress: The speaker emphasizes the significant impact of daily progress tracking. Simply observing a numerical representation of advancement towards a goal demonstrably increases the probability of achieving it. The direct question posed to the question-asker is: “What way are you tracking your progress towards those goals that you claim to have?” This highlights the importance of actively monitoring progress, not just passively intending to.

2. Accountability Mechanisms: A key argument is that self-motivation and discipline are often insufficient for sustained action. The speaker asserts, “we are very bad at motivating ourselves or even staying disciplined enough to take consistent action for long enough to see results.” Therefore, external accountability is vital. Suggested methods include:

• Accountability Buddy: Partnering with someone pursuing similar goals.
• Group Accountability: Participating in a collective effort with shared objectives.
• Online Communities/Mentorship Programs: Leveraging structured environments with built-in accountability features.

The question directed at the individual is whether they can “build any accountability mechanisms or systems into your life?”

3. Reminders & Time Blocking: The speaker acknowledges the realities of a busy life and the potential for goals to be overlooked. The importance of proactive reminders is stressed. Specifically, the suggestion is to incorporate “time blocks on your calendar to work on the thing that you said you were going to do.” This emphasizes scheduling dedicated time for goal-related activities, preventing them from being crowded out by other commitments.

Logical Flow and Interconnectedness

The presentation follows a clear problem-solution structure. The initial question establishes the problem (vision without action). The GPS method provides the overarching framework, and the three pillars of the “System” component offer concrete strategies for addressing the identified weakness. The three pillars are presented as interconnected; tracking provides data for accountability, accountability reinforces consistent action, and reminders ensure the process isn’t derailed.

Supporting Evidence & General Principles

While no specific data or research studies are cited directly, the speaker relies on general principles of behavioral psychology. The effectiveness of tracking is rooted in the concept of positive reinforcement and the motivational power of visible progress. The need for accountability stems from the understanding of human fallibility and the limitations of willpower. Reminders address the cognitive biases that lead to procrastination and task neglect.

Concluding Synthesis

The core takeaway is that achieving goals requires more than just vision and planning. A robust “System” – incorporating consistent tracking, external accountability, and proactive reminders – is essential for bridging the gap between intention and action. The speaker’s advice is highly actionable, focusing on specific strategies that can be readily implemented to improve goal attainment. As stated, “Generally, if we can incorporate tracking, accountability, and reminders into our life, it drastically increases our chances of actually taking action on the goals that we set our minds.”