Public Declarations for Big Gains

2019 was one of the best years of my life. We closed on a home. Vacationed every other month. Connected with old friends and family members throughout the year. Was direct booked for my first ever modeling gig. Took an acting class. And, joined the PTSA at my daughter’s middle school. 

But, the boldest thing I did last year was make a public declaration via Instagram to read 60 books in 2019. (I read 50.) And, on December 31 I announced again via Instagram that I had in fact stayed the course but had fallen just short of my goal. (Somewhere I read the average CEO reads 60 books per year.)

So why am I sharing this story you ask? And, how come I consider this goal to be bigger than buying a house? Especially in the Bay Area. It’s because no one knew that I was buying a home. If that fell through, I could keep it a secret. But sharing via Instagram was different. There was social proof.  

There wasn’t a week that went by that I was not aware of the statement I made to read 60 books. It was as fresh on my mind in December as it was in January. I knew I had set a lofty goal and I was determined to be a man of my word so to speak. And giving my word is something I don’t take lightly. 

The point that I am trying to make here is that goal setting can be powerful. Especially, when you are willing to make a public declaration on a popular social media channel for all to see and hear. Now I am not saying that you need to make a public declaration on Instagram the way I did, but I am saying you better tell somebody.  

I want you to consider making a public declaration or at least sharing with a group of friends a BIG goal that you have for 2020. One that will require you put in a little work each day in order to achieve it. Something that’s going to make you a better/different person than you were the previous year. And after all, isn’t that what life’s all about?

Yours in health,

Preston

P.S. I would love for a few of you to make a public declaration to a large group or even to me about something BIG you want to accomplish in 2020. And, if you need me to remind you every month or quarter, I can do that too.