The Identity Factor: How to BE the person who undoubtedly accomplishes goals

(2-minute read time) 

It was shortly before Christmas when I came across a pile of clothes I’ve been needing to sort through and donate.  I found the pile as I was preparing the guest room for holiday visitors. Getting that room ready was just one of what felt like a bazillion tasks that all needed to be done ASAP.  I looked at the pile and sighed. It had been waiting for me to take action for a long time.    

I almost shoved it on the top shelf of the closet so I could move on to the other things that needed my attention.  “It can wait a while longer,” I thought.  

But then, I remembered a profound lesson from 2019.  A lesson I’m committed to bringing into 2020. One I think could benefit all of us. 

It’s a simple statement from James Clear’s book “Atomic Habits”:  

“Every action you take is a vote for the type of person you wish to become.”   — James Clear 

One of my 2020 goals is to organize my home a bit more, clear some clutter, create more space.  I set out to eliminate 400 items by the end of March. I’m not sure I even have that many things I want to donate or toss, but that’s my goal.  I suspect I’m going to be surprised at how quickly 400 items add up.

With Mr. Clear’s lesson at the forefront of my mind, I knew that shoving the pile of clothes in the closet was NOT the vote I wanted to cast.  

It would have been easy to talk myself out of casting the best vote. It was still 2019, not even time yet to start working on my 2020 goal.  The clothes I got rid of wouldn’t even count towards the 400 (because I hadn’t set the number yet).  However, that all mattered much less than the impact of the choice I was about to make. By seeing my actions as a vote either for or against becoming the person who completes her declutter goal… it was a game-changer.   

I want to be a person who follows through, does what she says she’s going to do, and achieves her goals.  Who doesn’t?  

So, I sorted through the clothes.  I voted for my future self.   A small vote, but I think every vote counts.

Which version of you are you voting for today?  Could you use a hand casting your best vote? I can definitely help, just click here to schedule a free, 30-minute discovery session.