Forget Goals. Build These 3 Systems.

Most people set goals, but few achieve them. This video introduces two frameworks, or rather systems, to help achieve both personal and business goals. Goals are about 'I want,' while systems are about 'I do.' Goals focus on results, systems on the process. We are visual creatures, and these visual systems will allow you to track daily progress. The overall aim is to build a YouTube business channel that is the best in the Netherlands, and this approach applies to all aspects of life and business.

The first subsystem is your company's 'game rules.' This involves a simple test: would receiving 100 new clients make you happy or stressed? Happiness indicates a need to focus on offense (more leads and customers), while stress means focusing on defense (internal processes, team, leadership, communication). Once you identify your focus area for the quarter (offense or defense), narrow it down further to the biggest frustration point. Then, map out your current process for that specific area. Subsequently, you apply a four-step process: eliminate, automate (especially with AI), systematize (create simple SOPs for high-leverage points), and delegate. Effective delegation is only possible with systematization.

The second subsystem is the 'scoreboard.' After establishing your game rules, you need a simple dashboard to track progress. This isn't about monitoring everything, but focusing on the key, high-leverage points identified in your game rules. For each key metric, the scoreboard needs four elements: a current score, a monthly target, a status (red, orange, or green), and an owner. This scoreboard should be visible throughout the company and discussed weekly. While results are crucial for a business, achieving fantastic results comes from focusing on behavior. This transitions into the third system.

The third system, referred to as 'Highground' (or a similar tracking method), focuses on the behaviors needed for a winning score. For each core metric, identify three daily activities that will explicitly drive that number up. Additionally, define celebrations (parties) for red, orange, or green quarter-end results. This system, like the scoreboard, needs weekly discussion and adjustment. It ensures that even if results are good (e.g., high sales), the correct behaviors are still being followed, as results can sometimes be due to luck. By connecting all three systems, everything becomes clear: roles, current scores, targets, and the actions needed to achieve them.

Systems also apply to personal growth. A system fundamentally consists of input, process, and output. To create an 'upward spiral' in life, a fourth pillar is essential: reflection and improvement. Just like a business, your life needs a 'scoreboard.' While not an Excel sheet, journaling (like the 'Hemera journal') can serve this purpose. Track your daily inputs (time, money, activities) and give yourself a daily score for success and fulfillment. Over time, this helps identify patterns in your behavior and processes. If your scores are consistently below eight, it indicates room for improvement in your input and processes, enabling you to make better choices and improve your life over time.

A crucial concept for success and overcoming adversity is understanding 'right measure' and 'right speed.' Everything has an optimal amount and speed for healthy results. For example, walking at 4 km/h is relaxed, while cycling at that speed is awkward. Our brain often seeks speed, asking, 'How can I get fit/rich/happy faster?' This leads to incorrect choices (e.g., crash diets, unscrupulous business practices) where time works against you. Instead of speed, focus on the 'right path': 'Am I making the right choices? Am I doing the right things?' When you make the right choices, time becomes your ally, and everything naturally improves over time. Journaling helps in constantly reflecting and making these right choices.