Struggling to stick to your plan? Whether it’s fitness, finances, or personal growth, the issue isn’t your discipline or consistency—it’s your system.
James Clear, in his bestselling book Atomic Habits, says:
“We don’t rise to the level of our goals. We fall to the level of our systems.”
In other words, success isn’t about willpower or motivation. It’s about building a system that works for you. Let’s break this down so you can stop spinning your wheels and start making real progress.
Why Most Plans Fail
Let’s face it: many of us start with the “perfect” plan, only to abandon it a few weeks later. The problem? These plans often ignore our unique preferences, schedules, and abilities.
Here’s an example. For years, I tried to lose body fat using a five-day gym split with 30 minutes of cardio on the StairMaster. Every time, I failed. Not because I lacked motivation, but because that system didn’t fit my life.
Even the most optimal plan is worthless if you can’t follow it consistently. Compliance is the key to progress. That’s why a plan you can stick to 100% of the time will always outperform a “perfect” plan that you follow inconsistently.
The Science of Compliance
Success isn’t about doing everything—it’s about doing the right things consistently. I found my success by simplifying my system. Instead of a complicated workout routine, I focused on three non-negotiables:
• 10,000 steps daily
• Hitting my protein goal
• Three strength sessions weekly
These became my “floors”—the minimum actions I could take to keep moving forward. Even on my worst days, I could still achieve these. If progress was slower, I knew I was at least heading in the right direction. After all, slow motion is better than no motion.
How to Build Your System: A 3-Step Guide
If you want to create a system that works for you, follow these steps:
1. Set Your Floors
Your “floors” are the bare minimum actions you can take daily or weekly to stay on track. Think small but impactful. For example:
• Walk 7,000–10,000 steps daily.
• Prepare meals to hit your protein and calorie targets.
• Commit to just two or three gym sessions a week.
These are actions you can achieve even on your busiest days.
2. Simplify Your Approach
Complexity is the enemy of consistency. Choose a plan that fits your lifestyle. For example:
• Replace long cardio sessions with activities you enjoy, like walking or dancing.
• Opt for short, effective workouts rather than gruelling, time-consuming routines.
Keep it simple. You don’t need perfection—you need momentum.
3. Track and Adjust
Evaluate your progress weekly or monthly. If you’re not seeing results:
• Adjust your floors to be more realistic.
• Identify roadblocks and remove them.
• Focus on the habits that bring the biggest returns.
Remember, systems aren’t static—they evolve as you do.
Key Takeaway: Keep It Simple
Building a system is about making sustainable progress, not striving for perfection. Start small, stay consistent, and make adjustments as needed. The system that works for you will always beat the one that looks good on paper but doesn’t fit your life.
Work With Me
If you’re tired of spinning your wheels and ready to build a system that fits your lifestyle, I can help. My coaching programmes are designed to create sustainable, personalised fitness plans that help you reach your goals—without overcomplication.
Click here to learn more about my coaching services and start building the system that makes success inevitable.
Work smarter, not harder, and don’t ever complicate it.
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