Invest in the process, not the outcome

Invest in the process, not the outcome.

We all have taught to set goals. We need goals to have a meaningful process to achieve it.

However, we tend to live in the following fashion:

“I set a goal for myself. I succeeded in achieving it. My life is great!”

“I set a goal for myself. I failed. Life sucks.”

This sets you living a life that looks like a sinusoidal curve oscillating between elation and despair. It’s a terrible way to live, and try to run your business with.

Goals are important because they set direction.

Once you set a goal and you have the direction and distance there, invest in the process.

Draft a map and plan to move into your set direction in a certain time frame.

Then pour your energy and attention in taking the steps required, focusing on each step at the time.

Forget the goal. It’s safe even if you are not guarding it with your thoughts all the time.

Focus on the process and you’ll actually enjoy the journey.

Because the truth is, that it’s the journey is all you have now, the destination is a mirage. There are always elements that you have no control over, impacting both your plans and goal. Secondly, when you reach your goals, you are ready for the next destination.

Think of people who climb to Mount Everest. How long do they stay on the top of the mountain?  Usually 15-30 minutes. Reaching the top takes several weeks, not to mention preparations that take months or years.

It has been shown that people who detach from their desired outcome the most and focus on the process the strongest, paradoxically reach their goals more often with more success.

The benefit of this approach is the growth you always gain from the process.

This approach sets you for success.

You reached your goal: wonderful. You didn’t reach your goal: wonderful.

On both cases, you won.