Dear First name,
 

I’m sure all of us have set a goal, developed a plan to achieve that goal, and failed. I’ve always wanted to learn to play the piano, re-learn how to speak Russian, and dunk a basketball. But I’ve never been able to make myself do the necessary work over time to get there.

 

In March, I decided to change my strategy. Two years ago, an Achilles injury set me back in my jumping ability, and I had nearly stopped playing basketball. I started shooting baskets after work again, just trying to get a little better each day. This was a personal experiment. No strict plans, just a commitment to improve daily. I kept a journal with insights I want to share with you.

Behavior happens at the intersection of motivation, ability, and prompting. The catch is that motivation is fickle. It can’t be relied on for consistent behavior change. We need to consider our ability to act and the routines that create consistent prompts. When you focus on incremental improvement, you give yourself room to experiment and discover what works.

 

We often stop trying because we don’t see quick results. Committing to the process allows us to keep showing up, even when results aren’t immediate. Momentum builds slowly but can be sustained.

 

When we make dramatic efforts toward personal change, we sometimes do it at the expense of other areas of life. On the other hand, thoughtful and incremental changes can exist in harmony with our relationships and responsibilities.

 

In this model, the only competition is your past self. We aim to become our best selves, without being discouraged by someone else’s progress.

 

In medical school, I read an article about finding joy in the journey. Life isn’t about reaching a goal and then being happy. Trying to get a little better each day is one of the best ways to find joy. The process itself can be rewarding.

I’d like to report that I’m now ready for the NBA. I’m not. But my jumping has significantly improved. I’m eating better, sleeping better, and feeling better. I’ve lost a few pounds and feel more athletic. I’ve also created lasting, healthier habits.

 

At our 2025 Summit, Chris Washburn said you bike up a tall mountain one pedal stroke at a time. If your medical condition or personal challenges feel like tall mountains in front of you, just focus on being a little better each day.