The first instinct we ask ourselves when creating goals is usually to ask, “What do I have to do to get there?” That question alone often leads to an unintentional, short term effort which then can lead to burnout or frustration when results don’t show up fast enough. It’s a frustrating cycle too familiar but sometimes something as simple as a perspective shift is required. Instead, try asking this: “Who do I have to be to reach that level?” It’s not just about doing one off tasks or following a checklist but shifting your identity and lifestyle to reflect the type of person who naturally achieves that goal. This mindset doesn’t just apply to CEO or athletes, it applies to anyone trying to level up in any area of life.
Adopt the Lifestyle
Let’s say you want to become an elite athlete. Sure, you could Google “elite athlete training program” and try to follow it. But that’s really surface level. The real question is: What kind of life does an elite athlete live day in and day out? They sleep with intention, prioritize recovery, train with purpose, eat to fuel performance, and make countless behind the scenes choices that align with who they are, not just what they want. You don’t become elite by checking a few boxes; you become elite by living like someone who is. This same principle applies if you want to be a successful entrepreneur, a top level chef, or even just someone who’s more organized and less stressed. What does that person value? How do they spend their time? What do they say no to? Once you know that, you can begin aligning your habits, schedule, and environment accordingly.
Perspective Shift Matters
When you focus only on doing, change feels like a chore. But when you focus on being, change becomes more natural. You begin to filter your choices through the identity you’re stepping into. That’s powerful. It also helps you see if you truly want what you’re chasing. If you start living like the person who has the thing you want and realize the lifestyle isn’t a fit for you, that’s just as valuable. You’ve saved yourself from chasing an outcome that doesn’t align with who you are or want to become. Sustainable change doesn’t happen through hacks or hustle alone. It happens when your day to day habits, mindset, and choices consistently reflect the kind of person you’re aiming to be. So the next time you set a goal, don’t just ask what it takes to get there. Ask yourself if you’re willing to live like the person who already has it.
#unleashthepotential
Written by:
Dan Aquino
BS, ASFA-CPT
Take action… Now!
Voorhees Flyers Training center.
The Hollydell ice arena, in the main building.
