Introduction
Achieving your goals depends on how you create your day. It starts with the agreements we make. How many of you have found it difficult to find the time to implement your personal goals? How many of you have not?
The Monkeys on Our Backs
When we say yes to every request, we accumulate obligations that distract us from our goals and dreams. These obligations can be likened to monkeys on our back:
- Sixty or more monkeys: Overwhelming obligations.
- Addiction monkeys: Problems requiring constant attention.
- Other people’s monkeys: Responsibilities we’ve taken on from others.
- Legitimate monkeys: Genuine responsibilities we must manage.
Monkeys represent problems to be solved. We often take on solving others’ problems, neglecting our own. To achieve our goals, we must focus on feeding our legitimate monkeys and avoid taking on illegitimate ones.
Identifying and Managing Your Monkeys
To manage your monkeys effectively:
- List your problems and obligations.
- Categorize them:
- Problems not yours to solve.
- Problems resulting from addictions.
- Your legitimate problems.
- Check your legitimate monkeys.
- X those not yours.
- Circle those related to addictions.
Rules for Managing Monkeys
- Feed or eliminate monkeys: Avoid spending time on postmortems.
- Limit the monkey population: Only keep as many as you can manage.
- Feed by appointment only: Avoid haphazard care.
- Detach from monkeys: Let go when they no longer need you.
Powerful Ways to Create Your Day
- Define what you really want: Create a bucket list.
- Commit to your goals: Be proactive in pursuing them.
- End incompatible agreements: Align commitments and agreements with your goals.
- Plan and implement your dreams: Structure your actions and hold yourself accountable.
Structuring and Planning Your Day
- Schedule important tasks: What gets scheduled gets done.
- Make repetitive tasks routine: Success is hidden in our daily routines.
- Focus on one project at a time: Avoid “Monkey Mind.”
The Rule of Six
Set six goals a day, including one major project and one routine task. Do not add more until the initial six are complete. This method prevents overwhelm and ensures focus.
Areas to Set Goals In
- Relationships: At home, work, and with friends.
- Recreation: Rebuild energy and balance.
- Integrity goals: Clean up messes and loose ends.
- Personal development: Learn about yourself and others.
Conclusion
Achieving your goals involves deciding what you want, agreeing to do it, and keeping your agreements. Embrace joy in your actions and focus on what truly matters. Seize your day by making conscious choices and managing your time and obligations effectively.
Alexander Everett’s Wisdom: “Find the enjoyment in what you are doing; that is the only thing that will make you happy.”