This Year, I’m Focusing on Actions, Not Outcomes

Every January, many of us map out the year ahead with a list of goals. We dream big, set benchmarks, and imagine the outcomes that will make us feel accomplished. For years, I followed this same formula. It’s been a guidepost for growth, a motivator for progress, and a way to measure success. But this year, I’m taking a different approach and seeing if there is a new way to be THE? 

Instead of focusing on outcomes, I’m turning my attention to actions. It’s not about abandoning goals or lowering expectations. It’s about putting energy into the process rather than the end result. By focusing on what we do each day, we create the foundation of consistency, purpose, and momentum — qualities that often lead to even greater success.

So, why this shift for me, and why this year? Goals are important, and they can also be overwhelming. They come with a lot of pressure to perform and succeed, and let’s face it, outcomes aren’t always in our control. Timing, external factors, and even luck can play a role in whether we reach a specific milestone. Actions, on the other hand, are completely within our power. We choose how we show up, what we prioritize, and how much effort we put in. My focus in to find what differentiates A vs THE and for me, I want to see what happens when we as THE leader of our life, focus on actions rather than outcomes, I will keep you posted in December :)

This year, I’m asking myself a different question. Instead of “What do I want to achieve?” I’m asking, “What actions align with the person I want to become?” It’s  this subtle and powerful shift I am noticing within me. It moves the focus from some achievement to the choices I make every day. It transforms success from a destination to this daily practice.

For example, when it comes to health, I’m not setting a target weight or a specific fitness goal. Instead, I’m committing to actions like eating nutritious meals, exercising with intention everyday, and making time for recovery. In my professional life, I’m not solely measuring success by the number of keynotes I deliver or projects I complete. I’m dedicating myself to improving my skills, building authentic relationships, and providing value in every interaction.

This isn’t about ignoring aspirations. Goals give us direction, but focusing on actions keeps us grounded in the present. It allows us to adapt and grow, even when the path ahead isn’t clear. By putting energy into the process, we build habits and resilience that serve us well beyond a single year.

One of the most rewarding aspects of this approach I have been finding this past month is the sense of fulfillment it brings. When we celebrate effort, discipline, and courage, every day becomes this opportunity to feel accomplished. Success isn’t something we wait for; it’s something we create, moment by moment.

Of course, this shift isn’t without its challenges. There are days when actions feel small or progress seems slow. The temptation to measure success by outcomes still lingers. And for me those moments are reminders to trust the process. Real growth isn’t about giant leaps — it’s about steady, intentional steps.

So this year, let’s focus on the actions. Let’s define success by how we show up, not simply by what we achieve. Let’s build THE life rooted in habits and values, trusting that the outcomes will follow. Here’s to the year of intentional action—one step, one choice, one moment at a time.

I am always open to hearing your actions, feel free to share with me at Ryan@RyanAvery.com. 

P.S. Shout out to Tony for THE time in Vegas and always reading these posts. You are THE!