I am struck this week by the realization (again) of how often people do the same things over and over again even if they are not getting a desired result. If you do the same thing? What will you get? The same results. Remember that saying about the definition of insanity- Doing the same things, but expecting different results? I even catch myself doing this sometimes- whether its trying to get my son to keep his room clean or something business related. Other times, I find that I think I am getting the same result (seeing no progress) when in reality what I am doing is working…it is just slow progress.
It does become important to recognize that the perception of the same result…could have shades of improvement or progress. It is easy to say…nothing has changed. Maybe that is true …Maybe it is not.
So how do we know if our efforts are producing forward momentum or if our efforts are keeping us spinning endlessly in the same cycle?
A questioning process helps.
Ask yourself:
How long have I been engaging in this effort or behavior?
What results do I see?
Is there any net positive result (for example- in a weight loss goal- maybe you are exercising and eating healthier…but the you are not seeing the scale move…yet you are experiencing a positive result)?
Are there any negative results? (for example, if you have a money management goal- are you still spending more than you are taking in?)
Does my behavior support my goals? (example- if you want more money/financial freedom- are you looking for a better paying job? are you starting a business? are you open to possibilities?)
Once you begin to see things as they are…avoid beating yourself up. But, do determine to do something differently- anything differently. If you are trying to control spending, but can’t imagine giving up your Venti Latte- maybe you could live with a Tall Latte?- or go to the coffee shop one or two less days a week. Start with a small change…and then make more changes. Or if you really do not want to make any lifestyle changes- find a way to make more money. See my point here? The biggest thing that is stopping you is your mindset around your situation. Sitting around hoping that things will change is not a proactice way to live life. Actions need to be in place that support your goals.
What if you are on the other side of the issue…what you are doing is working…but you are getting impatient- because the progress is slow. In this case pat yourself on the back for progress. If you want to see a faster result- consider methods that might amplify your results, or maybe add something else- an additional action…or add some patience.
