I've been thinking a lot about systems, lately, particularly implementing systems versus setting up goals. My practice is one of the more systematic ones you'll find. We have a system for rebalancing portfolios, communicating with clients, booking meetings, and even for this newsletter. I learned long ago the best way to minimize errors and meet deadlines is to implement good systems and follow them religiously. Since doing so, my business took off and I miraculously don't need to work 70-hour weeks anymore!

I recently listened to a great interview with Naval Ravikant and just finished Scott Adam's (the creator of Dilbert) recent book the other day. Both follow a common line of thinking: Instead of having a goal to, say lose 10 pounds, implement a system where you work out several times a week at specific times and minimize less nutritious foods. With a goal, there is a finish line. Once achieved, if you don't replace it with another goal, you'll likely return to old habits. It's also hard to feel good before a goal has been achieved. 

On the other hand, a system becomes part of your lifestyle. Every time you follow the system, you feel good about yourself, which will make you want to create and implement more systems in the future. 

What's interesting, or perplexing, is that I failed to realize the most successful people I know have been implementing systems in the areas of their lives in which they thrive. Those who are wealthy track their budget and net worth on at least a monthly, but usually weekly, basis. Those in the best shape have their workouts planned or accounted for weeks out.

If you find this worth pondering yourself, I'd recommend this video by social psychologist Adam Atler, or the sources listed above as a way to start. I've clearly only scratched the surface of this line of thinking, but thought it was worth sharing what I've discovered so far.