The 3 Keys to Lasting Change: Why Strategy Alone Isn’t Enough
Success isn’t just about having a plan—it’s about shifting your beliefs and mastering your mindset.
Making real change in life—whether it’s landing a new job, building a habit, or improving yourself—comes down to three things: Strategy, Story, and State.
Most people focus on strategy alone, but that’s not enough. Let’s break down why all three are essential.
1. Strategy: The How
Strategy is the step-by-step plan. It’s reading books, taking courses, and following a proven process.
If you want to get in shape, there are endless fitness programs. You can find common questions and practice answers if you want to ace an interview.
The good news? Strategy is easy to find. There are countless resources to help you.
The hard part isn’t knowing what to do—it’s actually doing it.
"We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit." — Aristotle
2. Story: The Beliefs You Carry
Your beliefs shape how you see the world. If you believe you’re bad at interviews, you’ll hesitate, doubt yourself, and likely struggle.
Changing your story means replacing self-doubt with a new, empowering narrative.
Instead of saying, "I always mess up interviews," tell yourself, "I’ve prepared well, and I improve each time."
This isn’t about blind optimism—it’s about seeing reality through a lens that helps you grow.
"Whether you think you can, or you think you can’t—you’re right." — Henry Ford
3. State: The Mindset That Drives Action
Even with a great strategy and an empowering story, your state of mind in the moment can make or break you.
Imagine you’ve prepped for a job interview. You know your answers. You believe you’re capable. But as soon as you step into the room, nerves take over.
Your heart races. Your mind goes blank. Your voice shakes.
This is why managing your state—your emotions, focus, and energy—is critical.
A calm, confident state helps you apply your strategy effectively.
Techniques like deep breathing, visualization, and posture shifts can reset your state before big moments.
How to Apply This Today
Before tackling a big challenge, ask yourself:
Do I have a clear strategy?
Am I telling myself a story that empowers me?
Is my state of mind calm and focused?
When you align all three, real and lasting change becomes possible.