Of the various proposed approaches to achieving change, only two have been historically proven to be effective.
The first approach consists in “doing” what needs to be done, paying no mind to the various arguments that inhibit action: “I don’t have the ability, I don’t have the time, I don’t have the courage, I’m not healthy enough, my beliefs don’t allow it”. This also applies to any other sabotaging argument.
By springing into action, you feel the result, you build “confidence” and you manage to change your behaviour.
The second approach begins with the analysis of information, starting from “feeling” and planning, taking into account the ability to withstand the action, without flinching, and getting it done.
The first approach is quicker to yield results. Using one or the other approach depends fundamentally on the ability to exercise authority, on the environment, and on the available time.
Learn to “do the simple thing” using the power of determination, in order to:
- Save energy and time.
- Kill the saboteurs of action.
- Navigate through pain and pleasure.
- Develop habits quickly.
- Feed motivation.
To “do the simple thing” is the best way to achieve actual change.
I refuse to delve into more technical or scientific explanations, which could actually contribute to understanding, but would do little to encourage action.
It is also worth noting that these explanations may be easily found by referring to the great encyclopaedia that we carry in our pockets.
The vast majority of thinkers who speak of finding solutions to life propose certain formulae and claim that results are guaranteed if said formulae are followed.
However, such formulae are ineffective. After all, we are all different—each of us has a particular way of reading the world and interpreting it.
The experiences of an individual—and the emotions, feelings and beliefs attached to them—are unique. They are a mystery that can only be unravelled by the very individual to whom these experiences belong.
This forces us to develop our own recipes, which are best tailored to our ability to withstand the discomfort required to achieve the necessary changes.
The truly interesting topic of discussion here lies in the elements of a system that dictates our ways of thought and action. This system is not one to produce mismatching possibilities, that would only confuse someone who wishes to invest in their life. Rather, it is a map that facilitates the journey towards the desired destination. It sets one free from the danger of wandering off and getting lost.
So, this is what we propose:
- Working with strategies based on evidence, i.e., trusting that which has always worked.
- Working with explanations based on reasons, i.e., explanations of what lies at the root of the behaviours and attitudes that determine where we are going.
- Mapping out the factors that prevent us from doing what needs to be done.
- Training in the behaviours necessary to the process of change, as well as the use of effective tools.
- Working with suggested methods of self-monitoring based on “feeling”.
It is up to each individual to unravel the “mystery” (figuring out how to get into action). Only you can figure out what prevented you from getting into action. Naturally, only you can plan the necessary measures.
All this can be learnt in the school of life that we recommend must have:
- Charisma as a purpose.
- Charm as a strategy.
- Integrity as a value.
Purpose is what you wish to achieve in the future.
Strategy is the course of action that gets you where you want to go, that helps you define long-term goals and how to achieve them.
A good strategy is one that is capable of ensuring the process of achievement.
Tactics are specific actions to implement the initiatives outlined in the strategy, i.e., the routines. In other words, it is the set of individual steps and actions that will lead you to your goal.
Good tactics have the means to ensure the routines.
In short, strategy is the general plan, while tactics are the specific actions to execute the plan.