We’re often at odds when considering the expectations of “success” in our lives. We want all the hacks, the quick fixes, the shortcuts, and the easy way outs. In fact, we’re wired for the path of least resistance. It feels really good to “win” early, but unfortunately equally as bad to quit shortly thereafter.

How rarely do you find this path (sustainably) successful?

Ever worked out once and lost all the weight you wanted? No; this constant fluctuation of discipline and throwing it to the wind is a never ending cycle of disappointment.

It is then our repeatable consistent good decisions, over time, that move the needle. Perfect isn’t perfect…it’s impossible. Good is good, and great is better.

We’re betting on the “better more often than not” tortoise every time over the “hard charging, impatient, crash diet until I crash” hare. You might win the first race, but there are infinite races to come thereafter.

Here is a helpful sentiment to keep in mind:

Do not ‘expect’ to succeed; instead, wake yourself to do the [work] regardless of success or failure because you feel it is the necessary and important thing to do. Expect it to take three times longer than you initially expected, but work to make it happen in half the time you initially expected.

Manage expectations, work hard, stay consistent, be optimistic, and celebrate your wins – even the small ones.

Go have the best day ever; not because you expect it, but because you’re willing to work for it.