Let’s get to know “rider.” We are exploring a framework by Chip Heath and Dan Heath from their book, Switch, that helps us to change our behaviors so we can crush our 90-Day Goal Together. The framework includes a rider, an elephant, and the path. The rider represents our rational self, the logical and thinking part of us.
The rider of the elephant is the part of us that says, “I know I need to workout,” “I should choose the salad over the Chick-fil-A chicken sandwich,” “I should turn off Netflix and practice.” The rider knows we will benefit from time in the word and and prayer. The rider has big ideas and is very good at telling us what we “should” do.
The rational part of our self sets the clear direction for our emotional self, the elephant. The rider wants to do what is right and good. The rider knows what to do and often knows how to do it. The key is for the rider to set a clear direction that leaves no room for interpretation.
Tip 51: Set Clear Direction
Why is clear direction so important? Clarity creates ease. Clarity allows the rider to focus and stay the course. Since your 90-Day Goal is already a SMART goal so it has specificity, which is crucial for clear direction. So keep it in front of you. Write it in your Younique planner, share it with a friend or spouse, make it your phone wallpaper —whatever creates great visibility for you.
When the going gets tough, the rational side will start to say, “I don’t really have to…”, “There is another way to get there”, “I’ve got a better idea” to relieve the pain. I encourage you to tell your rider, “That might be true rational brain. But right now, in this season, we are going to do it this way.”
You set the clear direction so it is not up for interpretation. You have a 90-Day Goal! You know what it will take to get there. It is clear, it is in front of you, and it is not moving until you crush you.
Your 90-Day Goal is clear. Set it in stone and stick to it. And you will enjoy the power of clarity as you crush your goal.
Please send me your questions, challenges, and suggestions as we continue in the 90-Day Goal Together. I look forward to hearing from you and sharing the journey with you.
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