The difference between goals and systems lies in their focus and how they drive progress. Here’s a breakdown:
Goals are all about specific outcomes. They’re the finish line, like "lose 20 pounds," "run a marathon," or "write a book." Goals give us direction and something to aim for. They can provide motivation, but they’re also a bit like a one-and-done deal. Once you achieve a goal, there's a question: what’s next?
Systems focus on the process. Instead of fixating on the end result, systems are the daily routines and habits that bring steady progress. For instance, if your goal is to run a marathon, the system would be your training plan: running a certain distance every day, cross-training, stretching, and eating well. With systems, the emphasis is on doing the work rather than only the outcome, which can make progress more sustainable.