You Don’t Rise to the Level of Your Goals—You Fall to the Level of Your Systems
I recently read Atomic Habits by James Clear (phenomenal book by the way), and one sentence really stood out to me.
“You Don’t Rise to the Level of Your Goals—You Fall to the Level of Your Systems”
This quote speaks to something essential—something I see all the time in my coaching practice. It's not about trying harder. It’s about building something that actually supports you.
Maybe you want to get healthier, grow your business, deepen your relationships, or finally make time for something that matters to you. We’re taught to set goals, to aim high—and there’s nothing wrong with that. But if you’ve ever set a meaningful goal and still found yourself falling short, you’re not alone. And you’re certainly not broken.
Goals Give Direction—Systems Create Momentum
Goals are important. They give us a target. But systems are what carry us there.
Think of it this way:
Goal: Run a marathon.
System: A plan that helps you build endurance step by step.
Without a system, even the clearest goal can feel out of reach. But with the right system—even a modest goal can lead to remarkable change over time.
Why Systems Are Kinder Than Willpower
It’s easy to think we just need more motivation or willpower. But the truth is, motivation comes and goes. It’s not always there when we need it. Systems, on the other hand, can support us even on the hard days.
Let’s say you want to eat better. If you’re relying on willpower every time you open the fridge, it’s going to be exhausting. But if you’ve set up a system—like prepping meals ahead of time or removing the friction from healthy choices—you don’t have to constantly push. The system holds you, even when you’re tired or stressed.
Good systems are compassionate. They meet you where you are.
What Coaching Can Help You Discover
In coaching, we don’t just talk about goals—we explore the systems behind the scenes. The routines, environments, and habits that shape your results every day, often without you noticing.
If something in your life isn’t working, you probably don’t need to be tougher on yourself. You might just need a system that works with you, not against you.
Here are a few gentle questions to reflect on:
What are the patterns or routines that quietly shape my days?
What in my environment is helping—or hindering—my growth?
What small, sustainable shift could I start with today?
The Takeaway
It’s great to dream big. But transformation happens when we zoom in—when we build consistent, sustainable systems that carry us forward.
If your current systems aren’t supporting the life you want, it might be time for a reset. And if you’re not sure where to start, that’s exactly where coaching comes in.
Want to talk about the systems you're living by—and how to design better ones?
