Big Hammer or Small Blade? What it Really Takes to Achieve Your Goals

Want to achieve your goals?  Don’t listen to the marketers…

We are continually bombarded by messages that to cater to, and encourage, our short attention span. There is no shortage of “life hacks,” quick-fix remedies, and promises of miraculous overnight success.  Like a blow from Thor’s mighty hammer, we’re led to expect quick resolution to our problems, and rapid attainment of our goals.

But something I saw recently reminded me that most of that is not helpful.  When it comes to achieving your goals, there is a better approach you can employ. This may be best explained using an oddly shaped chunk of apple tree.

Notes and Resources:

• Prefer to read?  Here’s the full post:  Big Hammer or Small Blade? What it Really Takes to Achieve Your Goals
• Here’s a short video of craftsman Matt Jordan turning a burled apple tree limb into a beautiful coffee mug.
• Here’s the slow motion video of what is really happening with every turn of the spindle, thanks to Bailey Woodworks.
• Here’s a short description of the Habit Cycle and how you can use it to help you stick to your plan.
• For more skills to help you achieve your goals, be sure to check out my Goal Setting Mastery Course to help you build the habits that will turn your future into the one you envision.
   

Quotable: 

“Progress is not measured in a few giant swings of a hammer but in thousands of little chips from a blade.”  - Ken Downer

“Focus small instead of big.  Know that every tiny little bit matters, and all those little bits can add up to something amazing.”  - Ken Downer

“Missing a day is like working with dull tools or a saw with missing teeth; it’s going to take longer and the outcome may not be as good; steady persistence is a multiplier.”  - Ken Downer

“One great workout will not win a race. 30-40 good workouts strung together in close proximity is what wins races!”  - Lionel Sanders, Professional Triathlete

Related posts: 

How to Communicate the Vision: Striking the Right Chord

3 Ways to Keep Going When the Going Gets Tough

Why I Resolve to do Nothing Next Year

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Thanks for listening, and Lead On!