If I asked you to list the things that you want, my bet would be that your list would cover a lot of ground. No doubt in addition to the many items that would be good for you, if you’re anything like me there would be a number of items that might not be so good for you. For instance, food items on that list might include ice cream, cake, candy or burgers with lots of fries and let’s not forget the occasional big gulp. Of course, it doesn’t stop there, you may want to have that extra cocktail or you may want to drive a little too fast, or sleep in when you have important matters scheduled, or move that stop, exit prematurely or chase that trade.   Now, what do all of these things have in common? All of these behaviors, in addition to not being very good for you, leave you feeling better…even if for only a brief period. Granted, some of these behaviors could be considered mild compared to others; that is, until we look a little closer. Sugar, fats and chemicals found in processed foods have been shown to put your health at high risk. Alcohol and it’s dangers have been well documented. When you get behind the wheel you are driving a weapon and speed kills. Missing important appointments need no explanation.   And, must the dire consequences of rule violations be spelled out. Now, before you think that I’m trying to be some kind of killjoy let me assure you that I’m just as guilty of all of these from time to time and I’m a firm believer in moderation…even moderation. But, this is not my point. The point here is that human wants can vary greatly; and they can have competing interests. Of course there are those who encourage you to go after those things that you want. But, OK, wait for it…it’s not about what you “want” it’s more about what you want “most” as in what-matters-most.

So, as you identify and clarify those wants, keep in mind that the crucial factor lies in what you want “most.” The “most” list includes personal growth, healthy relationships, integrity, honesty, and those behaviors that build capacity for emotional strength and endurance.

I had dinner with one of my good friends last night and one of the topics of conversation revolved around entropy. Loosely, entropy is a measure of the amount of energy in a physical system not available to do work. The amount of entropy is often thought of as the amount of disorder in a system. Entropy is often used roughly to refer to the breakdown or disorganization of any system: For example, “The committee meeting did nothing but increase the entropy.” (Dictionary.com). We have all experienced entropy. The point here is to realize that this condition is not only possible but highly probable. To begin with, you must use your journal and document those thoughts, emotions and behaviors (internal data) and market situations (mechanical data) that lead to this happening in order to anticipate the future occurrence of the breakdown and successfully address it. By knowing what can bring it on and remaining vigilant and diligent you are able to incorporate mental and emotional tools to combat it.

This is paying attention to and embracing what you want “most.” It takes an understanding that our systems never remain constant. Just as we get older we tend to breakdown, it becomes imperative to consistently and constantly do those things that support the system by optimizing our internal and external resources; for instance, meditation, visualization, affirmations, nutrition, and exercise to name a few. These should be activities of daily living (ADL’s) just like bathing, brushing your teeth, and paying your bills.

So, your consistent success is not about what you want but what you want most. Focus on your best interests and aim to stay there.