Reader,

Last week on Instagram, I revealed a huge secret. It is one of the biggest secrets to my success to date. It's one I lean into most when it comes to money. It kept me motivated and on track even when I was in 6 figures of debt (thank you, last Recession!) and working my way back to zero. This same secret got me to where I am today: financial security. I will be my own wingperson as I reach for financial freedom.

That secret is the differentiation between goals and systems.

Harnessing that difference keeps motivation high, success, an almost certainty and hedges life in my favour. Hopefully, now, it is in your favour, too.

Goals and systems are not the same.

Goals are specific, finite outcomes. They typically provide a clear direction for your efforts. However, goals can also be limiting. They can create tunnel vision, making it difficult to see other opportunities or adapt to changing circumstances. When you are aiming for a specific goal, every day you haven't reached it, you are inherently failing. They can seem so far off and overwhelming that most of us just give up and walk away thinking we are failures and the problem.

Also, achieving a goal gives only a short win after a long, often exhausting slog, only to plummet us straight back to the starting line as we face the next goal. That's a tough cycle to be in!

On the other hand, systems are a set of processes and habits you can implement to reach those goals. They are typically long-running and provide a framework for consistent progress. Systems are not about achieving a specific outcome but about creating sustainable habits to help you achieve your goals over time. A clear, repeatable system lets you win every day and enjoy the journey to those bigger life outcomes.

For example:

Goal: I will save €2000 in a rainy day fund.

Without a simple, repeatable system, this suddenly becomes an overwhelming task, resulting in most of us not knowing where to start and eventually giving up, doomed never to break the paycheck-to-paycheck cycle.

System: I will save €5 a day into a rainy day fund.

Guess what happens over time, folks? And how great do you feel each day taking action and winning?

Systems crush frugality and deprivation, making each little step fun, enjoyable and motivating. The sense of daily satisfaction with systems is immeasurable.

Adam Atler, a professor at New York University Stern, knows this:

'Focusing on systems rather than goals is a more effective way to achieve long-term success. This is because systems focus on the process rather than the outcome, which can help you stay motivated and avoid burnout. Additionally, systems are more adaptable than goals, so you can easily adjust them as your circumstances change.'

Here are some of the key benefits of focusing on systems:

• Systems are sustainable. They are designed to be repeatable and easy to follow so that you can stick with them over time.
• Systems are adaptable. They can be easily modified to fit your changing needs and circumstances.
• Systems are motivating. They provide a sense of progress and accomplishment, even when you haven't reached your ultimate goal.

Of course, goals can still be a valuable tool for motivation and direction. However, it is important to remember that goals are just one part of the equation. By focusing on systems, you can create the foundation for long-term success.

Here are some tips for implementing a systems-based approach:

• Identify your long-term goals. What do you want to achieve in your life?
• Break down your goals into smaller, more manageable steps. This will make them seem less daunting and more achievable.
• Create a system for each step. This could be a habit, a routine, or a process.
• Track your progress. This will help you stay motivated and make adjustments as needed.

Systems are not about reaching perfection. They are about making consistent progress. So don't be afraid to experiment and find what works best for you.

This week's reads and resources

• Podcast I’m listening to - Bigger Pockets Money personal finance is personal – some want to get out of debt, others strive for financial freedom, and many simply want to be in a comfortable financial position. This is a good listen for you.
• Key Tool - My Secret Revealed​ - Goals Vs Systems​
• The book I'm reading: Anatomy of a Breakthrough: How to Get Unstuck and Unlock Your Potential by Adam Atler. All of us go through episodes of simply being stuck, whether we're trapped in a thankless job, wrestling with writer's block, muddling through a midlife crisis, or fixing a fraying friendship. It's time to get unstuck.

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"The future depends on what you do today."

- Mahatma Gandhi

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More money, more freedom, more happiness,

Kel 'systems all the way' Galavan

PS: Whenever you're ready, here are the ways I can help you: ​​ ​​​1:1 Coaching:​​ Rise Money Formula, heal your relationship with money and get in the driver's seat of your future once and for all. Be the first to know about the next ​Rise Money Formula​ group coaching program Lunchtime webinars for your workplace. Just hit reply.