We often assume that we have to start from zero because we've had a setback. However, this is the farthest from the truth. Consider a GPS. Suppose you're driving down a road and have your GPS or Google maps or anything else telling you directions on how to get there. In that case, it will provide you the correct paths and maybe even alternative routes. If at one point or another it tells you to turn left and you turn right or delay in taking the right turn, it doesn't ask you to go back to zero. Instead, what it does is from where you are; it allows you to continue forward.
Often, we think that because we have failed to complete a task or meet a target, we have to start from zero. This mindset disregards everything you've learned and the journey you've had thus far. The appropriate action would be to analyze why you find yourself in that position and what has led you to this particular place. It may have been a wrong turn or a delay in action, or maybe you got distracted.
Trying to juggle more than one thing at a time can lead you to a path of distraction. Not that one thing is more important than the other, but being in a time crunch and juggling multiple things can lead to some broken pursuits. But by reanalyzing what has taken place, you'll be able to go ahead and restructure your strategy and thus hit your intended target.
This is much better than having the idea that you have to start from zero because the truth is you only get to start from zero once. You only have one chance to make a first impression, just as you only get one chance to start from zero. You don't get to do two first introductions or two first impressions; you only do that once! The idea that we could start from zero is really preposterous. And really, who wants to start from zero all over again? Instead, we should use everything we've learned, analyze all the highs and lows, and restructure and pivot appropriately to reach the intended target.
So, if you set a goal from the beginning of the year and have found yourself not hitting the target, don't start from zero; start from where you are. It's much easier to move from where you are than trying to go back to zero as though you haven't even made it thus far.
I’m Miguel, and the above is just my opinion. Are you looking for more content like this? Here’s a complete list of articles and information for a free 30 Minute strategy session. Here's what I’m doing now and what I don’t do. I’d love it if you listened to my podcast, Strategy Rewind.
