Problem
Vague goals make it difficult to choose the right actions.
Action
Define exactly what you want to achieve and how you will recognize success.
Outcome
You stay focused on the right work.
Chapter: Get Specific
Problem
Good intentions often fail without a clear plan.
Action
Choose the exact time and place for your next step before the opportunity appears.
Outcome
You act on your goals more consistently.
Chapter: Seize the Moment to Act on Your Goals
Problem
Losing sight of the remaining work can reduce persistence.
Action
Regularly measure the distance between your current progress and your goal.
Outcome
You maintain effort until the goal is complete.
Chapter: Know Exactly How Far You Have Left to Go
Problem
Ignoring likely obstacles leaves you unprepared.
Action
Identify potential challenges before you begin, and believe you can succeed.
Outcome
You recover from setbacks more effectively.
Chapter: Be a Realistic Optimist
Problem
Trying to prove your ability can limit learning.
Action
Treat every effort as a chance to learn from practice and feedback.
Outcome
You improve your performance over time.
Chapter: Focus on Getting Better, Rather Than Being Good
Problem
Slow progress can make you want to quit.
Action
Continue taking steady action even when results take time.
Outcome
You achieve more challenging goals.
Chapter: Have Grit
Problem
Weak self-control makes it harder to stay consistent.
Action
Practice small daily actions that require discipline.
Outcome
You follow through on your plans more reliably.
Chapter: Build Your Willpower Muscle
Problem
Frequent temptation makes good decisions harder.
Action
Change your surroundings to reduce unnecessary temptations.
Outcome
You make better choices with less effort.
Chapter: Don’t Tempt Fate
Problem
Focusing only on what to avoid does not build better habits.
Action
Decide the specific action you will take instead of the unwanted behavior.
Outcome
You build lasting positive habits.
Chapter: Focus on What You Will Do, Not What You Won’t Do