Finding Balance: The Importance of Process and Results in Goal Achievement
Written on
Chapter 1: The Process vs. Results Debate
Every January, countless podcasters release episodes on how to effectively set and achieve goals. Amidst this surge of advice, a significant debate arises: should we prioritize the process or the results?
In one corner, we have Hal Elrod, who emphasizes the value of trusting the process. He believes that adhering to a well-defined method will ultimately lead to success. In contrast, Benjamin Hardy argues that results are what truly matter, suggesting that if you're not seeing outcomes, it may be time to abandon your current strategy.
Both perspectives have merit, and many influential figures in the field of behavior change share similar views. But if you're just beginning your journey of self-improvement, which philosophy should you adopt?
The first video, "Process vs Results - Which One is Important to Achieve Your Goals," dives into this debate, providing insights on the importance of both approaches in reaching your objectives.
Section 1.1: Starting Your Improvement Journey
When embarking on a new path—be it getting fit or altering your dietary habits—you'll need to establish a new routine. This change necessitates a fresh approach. For many, the desire for immediate results can be overwhelming. If you don’t see validation within a week, it’s tempting to abandon your new process and return to old habits.
How can you determine whether to trust the process or pivot because the results aren’t forthcoming?
Subsection 1.1.1: Validating Your Process
First, assess if your process is appropriate. For example, if you aim to reduce your fast food intake from two meals a day to one, progress may be gradual. Similarly, increasing sales calls from three to six might not yield immediate results without evaluating the effectiveness of your approach. Sometimes, a change in strategy rather than simply increasing effort can lead to better outcomes.
Section 1.2: The Exhaustion of Constant Reassessment
What happens if the process aligns with your goals but you still see no results? Should you stick with it or start anew? Constantly second-guessing your approach can lead to exhaustion and procrastination. I experienced this during my struggle with sobriety, where frustration led me to discard various methods without giving them adequate time to work.
Chapter 2: The PDCA Cycle as a Framework
The PDCA cycle—Plan, Do, Check, Act—offers a structured way to continuously evaluate both processes and results. This iterative model fosters a loop of improvement.
- Plan: Define your process. Understand your starting point, objectives, and the steps you'll take.
- Do: Implement your plan with commitment. Stick to your new eating habits or study schedule.
- Check: Review your results. Are you seeing improvements? If not, what adjustments can be made?
- Act: Decide if changes are necessary based on your evaluation. This step is crucial for understanding what worked and what didn’t.
The second video, "A Practical Guide to Focusing on Process Over Outcome," elaborates on how to prioritize your actions effectively for sustained success.
By utilizing the PDCA cycle, you won't have to choose between process and results; both are essential for achieving your goals.
Chapter 3: Moving Forward
There are various paths to overcoming challenges, whether through support groups, therapy, or community resources. If you’re contemplating a change, take the plunge! Experiment with different options, commit to trying each one multiple times, and don’t give up until you find what resonates with you. Remember, persistence is key to witnessing the transformation you seek.