Motivation is Overrated: Build Systems Instead
- Nanette Brown
- Aug 29
- 1 min read
Here's how to build a system:
Stop asking "How do I stay motivated to do this?"
Start asking "How do I build a system that makes this happen naturally?"
The difference?
Motivation asks your future self to be disciplined.
Systems ask your current self to be smart.
Examples:
• Don't rely on motivation to exercise → Put your gym on your commute route
• Don't rely on motivation to eat healthy → Automate grocery delivery, prep meals Sunday
• Don't rely on motivation to save money → Auto-transfer to savings before you see it
• Don't rely on motivation to learn → Change your environment (podcasts during commute, books by your bed)
Your motivated self shows up maybe 60% of the time.
Your systems work 100% of the time.
Build the system. Let motivation be the bonus, not the plan.
What's one system you could build this week that would make your goal feel automatic?
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