I expect the worst and when it doesn’t happen, I’m happy.
Because of my jovial nature, my friends are surprised when I confess to being a pessimist.
I’m constantly on the lookout for threats.
Being a pessimist is exhausting.
And it’s bad for your health.
My friend Brendan Elias recommended that I read “The Gap and the Gain” by Dan Sullivan and Dr. Benjamin Hardy.
This book has helped me change my perspective.
I know that many entrepreneurs have a similar mindset.
They set goals like the ever moving horizon and are strongly self critical when these goals are not reached.
How to fix this.
ALWAYS MEASURE BACKWARDS.
Yep, that’s the big takeaway.
Look back, where were you 10 years ago compared with now. What have you achieved?
Then the same for 5 years, 1 year, quarterly.
Look how much progress you’ve made.
Now, what about daily…
Here is a powerful practice I implement from this book.
Every evening, I think about the 3 priorities for the next day.
If you have more than 3 priorities, they are not priorities!
Write them down. Your subconscious can get to work on those as you sleep.
Next, before I go to sleep, my spouse and I share our “gratitudes” from the day with each other.
This sets your mind on always looking out for the wins.
For me it might look like: Smashed those 3 priorities, went surfing. Had a coffee and a lovely walk with my spouse and our dog.
In the day, strike-through on paper (more satisfying than on computer) those 3 priorities as you achieve them.
This simple practice helps me program my mindset to get daily satisfaction by achieving something everyday and to focus on the wins.
Here were my key takeaways from the book:
1. The Gap
The gap is the space between where we currently are and where we aim to be.
Focusing on the gap can lead to feelings of dissatisfaction and underachievement, as it emphasises what we haven’t accomplished.
2. The Gain
The gain is the distance between where we started and where we are now.
Recognizing and appreciating our gains fosters a sense of achievement, progress, and gratitude.
3. Measure Backward, Not Forward
Instead of measuring our success by how far we still have to go (forward), we should measure how far we’ve come (backward) from our starting point.
This approach highlights our achievements and growth, this in turn boosts our motivation and happiness.
4. Practical Strategies for Implementation
Set realistic goals, acknowledge and celebrate small wins.
Regularly reflect on progress.
5. Apply Across All Areas of Life
The principles can be applied not just in business, but in personal development, relationships, and other areas of life.
Viewing our efforts and progress through the lens of the gain enriches our experiences and enhances our satisfaction.
6. Enjoy the Journey
The real secret is to enjoy every step, every climb, every moment.
Life isn’t just about the destination but the adventures along the way.
Talk soon,
Lloyd
PS – Stuck in the gap and need some help with executing on those goals? Let’s chat.
