The things we do that guarantee failure

We all know that guy or girl. The only one in the friend group who is completely clueless why she’s going in circles and not making any progress in life.

At some level, you and I are that guy or girl. So just embrace this good news and be that guy or girl, who perhaps does a circle or two, but asks for help and guidance before the third one.

Here’s a list of things people do that practically guarantees failure…and more going in circles.

We look for shortcuts. The journey is the journey, doing the mundane, tedious, necessary work is part of it. When we look for shortcuts we miss doing the quality work that will increase the velocity of our movement. You will not find shortcuts in anything that’s important in life, but if you’re smart - you’ll find ways to move faster.

We are inconsistent. One way to increase your velocity is not sprinting, losing your breath, having to lay down, burning out, not being able to move and then sprinting again. Don’t sprint for a short time - walk for a long time. Be patient and make progress every day without losing your breath. It’s not glamorous, but it will increase your velocity.

We don’t have a process. Which means we never fully know what works and what doesn’t. We end up feeling we have tried everything to no avail. The truth is, we tried nothing well and end up in the exact same spot, only discouraged. This is the definition of going in circles.

We don’t seek guidance. It’s a cliche that speaks to the consistency of our self-sabotaging behavior. If you’re the smartest person in the room, you’re in the wrong room. Surround yourself with strong, courageous, loving people, who are willing to be a wise guide to you on your journey. Nothing increases your velocity more than this.

We try to compete. In the words of Peter Thiel - Competition is for losers. I believe this to be true at a psychological level. It’s good to be aware of what others are doing in the same space. Being preoccupied by it will take your focus off your unique assignment in life. There is no one exactly like you. Learn from the best but own your voice, your contribution and your assignment. No one can compete with that.

May you stop going in circles and start going in spirals.