Picture your favorite game: the exhilaration of crushing a new level, unlocking a new character, epic wins.
now, would you still play this game if there was no data? no levels, no upgrades, no competition: “just for fun?”
probably not.
What makes those games so addictive and fun?
a clear goal & clear metrics for the hero to follow.
when you feel like you aren’t making progress, you stop making progress.
whenever you’re tackling a big goal, you tend to get stuck because it seems like you are not making progress (i.e. gym, long project).
The key: make your goal, more like a game.
3 ways to do that.
- challenge!
constraint cultivates creativity.
every game has a hero’s quest, where they face challenges that unlock new strengths.
here are 3 examples of ways to spice up your goals & add some challenge.
- set a timer fo 5 minutes: how much you can accomplish?
- perfectionist? use the “no edit rule” for the first 10 minutes of your draft.
- try a new form of exercise
- diversify your data!
the hero’s quest isn’t only the grand battle: there’s also progress bars & leaderboards.
action step: set process-based goals, not product-based goals.
product based goal: gain 100 followers
- vague, not in your control
process based goal: post daily and write 1 tweet per day for 30 days.
- specific. you have the gratification of sticking with something for a WHOLE month, regardless of outcome.
- level up with learning!
every hero levels up-building new strengths, skills & discovering super powers.
action step: keep a log of things you learn, whether it’s a new strength you discovered, a cool book you read, or an encouragement from your friend.
Personal growth is sustainable when we make it fun.
If you don’t want a boring life, don’t set boring goals.
You’ll stick to your habits if you actually enjoy them.
Rena Lin
