Transform Your Product Development Process: From Idea to Interactive Prototype in 20 Minutes

Join me on Monday, December 30 for a free action-packed lightning lesson where I'll show you how to radically accelerate your product validation process using AI.

Whether you're validating a new feature or pitching a complete product overhaul, this lightning lesson will give you immediately applicable tools and techniques to test more ideas, fail faster, and ultimately build better products.

Date: Monday, Dec. 30 | Time: 8:00 - 8:30 AM PST

Register now at https://maven.com/p/d6ada9/rapid-prototyping-for-p-ms-from-idea-to-demo-in-20-minutes

It's that time again. As we wrap up 2024, my social media feeds are already filling with ambitious New Year's resolutions. You know the ones - "I'll work out every day!" or "I'll read 50 books this year!" These grand declarations usually fizzle out by February, leaving us feeling defeated and discouraged.

But what if there's a better way?

For years, I've taken a different approach to resolutions. Instead of making yearlong commitments, I set monthly goals aligned with desired outcomes. This simple shift has been a game-changer. Why? Because falling off the wagon in January doesn't doom my entire year. Each month is a fresh start, a new opportunity to hit those targets.

Another secret of mine? I focus on desired outcomes rather than specific actions. Take "continuous learning" for example. Instead of vaguely promising to "learn more," I track books read with a monthly goal of two. It's specific, measurable, and - most importantly - achievable.

Some of my monthly goals might surprise you. Sure, I track workouts (10 per month) for healthier living, but I also measure board game nights with my wife (4 per month) for continuous marriage improvement. Yes, you read that right - board games are a key metric in my marriage goals. It's not about the games themselves; it's about creating intentional time for connection and shared experiences.

This approach isn't just about tracking numbers. It's about understanding that life happens. Some months you'll crush your goals; others, you'll fall short. And that's okay. The beauty of monthly resolutions is that you get 12 fresh starts each year, not just one.

Here's my framework for 2025:

This system works because it's both structured and forgiving. Each goal is specific and measurable, but the monthly reset prevents the "all or nothing" mentality that dooms so many annual resolutions. Plus, tracking outcomes rather than actions keeps me focused on what really matters.

As you think about your own resolutions for 2025, consider this approach. What outcomes do you really want? How could you measure them monthly instead of yearly? And most importantly, what metrics would truly reflect progress toward your goals?

Break a Pencil,

Michael

www.breakapencil.com

P.S. I'd love to hear about your approach to resolutions. Drop me a line and let me know what you think about this monthly reset method.

P.P.S. If you enjoyed this, please share with others. Referrals are always appreciated.