I recently came across this article - Habits vs. Goals: A Look at the Benefits of a Systematic Approach to Life - a very interesting read indeed.
It starts off by talking about making a tangible goal as the first step to chasing an intangible concept! Then it talks about the problems with goals and benefits of habits and the need for a systematic approach.
I do agree with the view that habits power our lives - the extent of influence habits have on us is very high. And so do we - in terms of the extent to which we can influence our habits!
Yes, habit is more dependable.
But why switch our focus from achieving goals to long term habits ? Why not have the goals trigger the habits ? I am not quite OK with the article's recommendation to focus on habits alone. I encourage you to read it. It really does make you think about both - a good point for reflection..
I would say no one can wish away the power of goals augmented by habits to support fulfilling those goals. Why chose one over the other - let us go for both.. What do you say ?
Why not have the goals trigger the habits ?
First things first. Let's not separate Habits and Goals.
Habits lead to achieving goals, not the other way round actually. Without persistent habits, we can't achieve any goal.
When you wish to set a goal, you may start with that, but setting the process to accomplish those goals is more critical than anything.