Sometimes we get so caught up in an activity, we forget the end result we’re trying to achieve. But when we’re clear on the end result, continue to revisit it as we plug along and are willing to try new activities when needed, we are much more likely to get what we want.
Activity Vs. End Result
Unfortunately, doing stuff isn’t always synonymous with accomplishing stuff. In reality, there can be a big difference between things like running the vacuum and cleaning the floor (as many of you with teenagers like I do may already know).
Sure, it may look or feel like the floor is getting clean when the vacuum is run. After all, that’s a commonly used tool for achieving that end result. However, results may vary.
To extend the example, if we are actually trying to clean the floor, we will keep rolling the vacuum over a particular spot until we don’t hear the cat litter being sucked up anymore.
End Result Vs. Activity
When we’re looking for a specific end result, we are more likely to keep trying different activities until we find the one that delivers the results we want. In our book, Splash!: Increase Your Life’s Impact, we include the “Results Oriented Mindset.” It reads:
In order to be as effective as possible in our calling, we must be very clear on the results we are trying to achieve. It’s easy to get caught up in doing “stuff” because those things seem like good ideas at the time. But the activities we do for our calling should be determined by the specific results we are working toward. After any activity, we should evaluate its results and modify any further activities until we get the results we want.
We can apply this mindset in all kinds of areas in our lives, e.g.:
- Professional
- Health
- Spiritual
- Relationships
- Discovering our purpose
- Making a difference in the lives of other people
We can even apply it in simple ways like cleaning the house.
Are there any areas of your life where you’re not getting the results you want? If so, consider trying out some new activities until you get the end result you want.
