28/01/2026
HOW TO BECOME SO GOOD AT ACHIEVING YOUR GOALS THAT IT FEELS LIKE CHEATING 2
In our first episode of this series, we briefly discussed the need for systems and how they can help automate essential tasks, minimizing distractions and overcoming laziness.
In today's episode, we'll unpack why you might feel tired, lazy, and unmotivated to pursue the things you want—and know—you need to do. Research in psychology highlights that such feelings often stem from self-regulatory failures, where factors like task aversiveness (perceiving a task as unpleasant), low self-efficacy, and impulsiveness play key roles in procrastination. Understanding these underlying causes is crucial for breaking the cycle.
Why do we need to uncover the "why"?
At Netwealth Consult, we believe that solving any problem requires first grasping its foundation—the underlying psychology that serves as its bedrock. A meta-analytic review of procrastination supports this, showing that addressing root causes, such as fear of failure or lack of motivation, leads to more sustainable change than surface-level fixes.
For example, if you're struggling financially, it's difficult to resolve your money issues without understanding why you have limited funds.
We must investigate the "why": Do you have a job?
If so, what are your spending habits?
What are your beliefs about earning, saving, and spending money?
What were your early experiences with money, and how have they shaped your current views?
These questions help uncover the insights needed to design your own personalized systems.
Therefore, before prescribing "here are the things you need to do," we first need to determine why you're in your current situation.
At Netwealth Consult, we employ several tools to reveal your "why," but I'll share one with you here: the 5 Whys.
The 5 Whys is a root cause analysis technique originally developed by Sakichi Toyoda for Toyota's production system to identify underlying issues in manufacturing.
It has since been adapted for personal development and psychology, where it helps uncover distorted thoughts and beliefs driving problematic behaviors, such as those leading to self-sabotage or inaction.
With the 5 Whys (or up to 7, depending on the complexity), you repeatedly ask "why" in response to each answer, drilling down to the core.
Let's apply it to the financial example from earlier.
Question: Why do you struggle financially?
Answer: Your job doesn't pay much.
Question: Why doesn't it pay much?
Answer: It's typically a low-paying role.
Question: Why is it a low-paying role—is it due to skills, location, or the nature of the job itself?
Answer: The issues vary. It could be location-based, as people in other areas earn more for similar work. Or it might be a skills gap, where you're not qualified enough for higher-paying opportunities.
Question: If it's a location issue, do you need to relocate to earn more?
(And so on, continuing until the root is exposed.)
As you can see, these questions dig deep to reveal why you're in your current position. Studies on the effectiveness of root cause analysis techniques like the 5 Whys confirm their value in improving problem-solving outcomes, though they emphasize the need for systematic application to avoid superficial results.
So, before berating yourself for falling short of your goals, take a moment to sit down and ask these "why" questions honestly.
If helpful, enlist a trusted friend to pose the questions while you respond truthfully.
At Netwealth Consult, we recognize that unearthing the root of a problem can be challenging on your own.
That's why we offer professional services to guide you in discovering why you're where you are.
Then, using our tested-and-proven RMS system, we help you achieve your highest level of self-actualization.
Send us a message today if you need assistance transforming your life from its current state to one that's more honorable, prestigious, and valuable.
