PRODUCTIVITYWeeks to result

Create a Ladder of Descending Goals

Breaking Down Big Goals into Smaller Ones

Problem it solves

low productivity

Best for

Individuals seeking to break down big goals into smaller ones

Not ideal for

Those who are not willing to create a plan

Overview

Why this framework exists

This framework involves breaking down big goals into smaller ones, creating a ladder of descending goals that can be achieved in relatively short time frames.

Core principles

3 total
  1. Big goals can be overwhelming and that breaking them down into smaller ones can make them more achievable.
  2. Creating a ladder of descending goals can help you stay focused and motivated.
  3. You should continually remind yourself of the larger goal and adjust the smaller goals as necessary.

Steps

3 steps
  1. Break Down Big Goals into Smaller Ones
    Break down big goals into smaller ones that can be achieved in relatively short time frames.
    Pro tipUse a journal or planner to write down your goals and break them down into smaller ones.
    WarningDon't make the smaller goals too easy or too hard - they should be challenging but achievable.
  2. Create a Ladder of Descending Goals
    Create a ladder of descending goals that can be achieved in relatively short time frames.
    Pro tipUse a mind map or diagram to visualize your goals and create a ladder of descending goals.
    WarningDon't forget to continually remind yourself of the larger goal and adjust the smaller goals as necessary.
  3. Adjust the Goals as Necessary
    Adjust the goals as necessary and continually remind yourself of the larger goal.
    Pro tipUse a regular review process to adjust the goals and make sure you are on track.
    WarningDon't be too hard on yourself if you don't meet the goals - adjust them and keep moving forward.

Checklist

Saved in your browser

Examples

2 cases
Thomas Edison

Thomas Edison used a ladder of descending goals to achieve his big goals.

OutcomeHe became one of the most prolific inventors in history.
Steve Jobs

Steve Jobs used a ladder of descending goals to achieve his big goals.

OutcomeHe revolutionized the tech industry and created innovative products that transformed the way people live and work.

Common mistakes

3 traps
Not Breaking Down Big Goals
Don't fail to break down big goals into smaller ones - they can be overwhelming and make it harder to stay focused and motivated.
Not Creating a Ladder of Descending Goals
Don't fail to create a ladder of descending goals - it can help you stay focused and motivated.
Not Adjusting the Goals as Necessary
Don't fail to adjust the goals as necessary - it can help you stay on track and make sure you are making progress towards the larger goal.

Origin story

How this framework came to be

The concept of creating a ladder of descending goals is rooted in the idea that big goals can be overwhelming and that breaking them down into smaller ones can make them more achievable.

Source

Traced to primary
Source · BOOK
Robert Greene 2 Books Collection Set (The Laws of Human
Robert Greene · 2018
Open source →

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