I just started reading Atomic Habits by James Clear. I get why the book is loved. The first chapter is about "Surprising Power of Atomic Habits".
The chapter talks about the compounding effect. How replicating small good decisions leads to remarkable results. This reminds me of the statement that used to float around on how Beyonce prepared for 8 months for a 2-hour performance at the Coachella, and we should think about that when we want immediate results.
The overnight success stories are often due to the compounding effect. Minor changes to your routine may lead you into a completely different trajectory. Good habits make time your friend while bad habits make time your enemy.
Maintaining a habit in a day or two is simple but after, it starts becoming a struggle. The reason why we do not stick to our habits is because of the goals we set and the systems we use to attain the goals.
The difference between goals and systems is that goals are the results we want to achieve while systems are processes that lead to results.
Goals can be attained and that will be the end but having systems means still setting other goals and continuing to play the game.
We should strive to better each and every day remembering that done is better than perfect and progress is always progress.
Setting goals is all fun and games until you catch yourself attaching your happiness to it. This is wrong. Instead, fall in love with the process.
The more you are committed to your process the more progress you will make.