The Importance of Systems
Be very methodical in your life if you want to be a champion. ~ Alberto Juantorena
The road to success is not glamorous. It is a result of methodical, systematic, careful choices. All too often people see success in other's lives and assume that what they are seeing is something that happened quickly. They believe that what they see is all there is. And this is so far from the truth!
As humans, we love quick fixes, simple tricks, and shortcuts. But true success rarely comes from any of these. Success is a product, not a system. However, there is rarely success without a system. In the same way, failure is also a product of a system.
Two definitions of the word system (from Oxford Languages) are as follows:
A set of things working together as parts of a mechanism or an interconnecting network.
A set of principles or procedures according to which something is done; an organized framework or method.?
And according to Wikipedia "A system is a group of interacting or interrelated elements that act according to a set of rules to form a unified whole. A system, surrounded and influenced by its environment, is described by its boundaries, structure and purpose and is expressed in its functioning."
In other words, a system is never the sum of its parts. Instead, it is a product of how these parts interact.
Setting Up Systems in Daily Life
So, if the point of focus should be on the system instead of success or failure, how do we set up those systems?
First, you need to know why you need a system and what you want to accomplish with this system. What is the end goal of the system you are setting up?
Next, you need to decide what is and is not essential to the process of reaching the desired goal. What are the steps that need to be taken? What is the most efficient way work this system?
It is also important to identify what you need to make this system work. Are there tools you need - a planner, writing material, a calendar, or any other items needed? Do you need a space to work? Do you need more information? Are there other people who need to be on board to make the system work?
And, it's always good to have a way to track your progress. This helps you not to lose sight of your reason for working this system. Focus is important!
Be Flexible
Systems are important but it is also important not to be rigid in your system. Instead, systems should allow for flexibility and adaptability when something unexpected comes up or you learn something new. Well-designed systems save time and mental energy because less time is spent thinking about what to do next or worrying that something important has been forgotten. Knowing that the most important things have been addressed allows for peace of mind and greater creative thinking. Life is a learning process and our systems should reflect that.
When you fall in love with the process rather than the product, you don't have to wait to give yourself permission to be happy. You can be satisfied anytime your system is running. ~ James Clear
To learn more about why I write, and why I share my life here, please read this post - Uniquely You, For a Purpose.
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