Framework
Anti-Wasteman System
A nine-step execution framework that turns reflection into commitment — name the dream, make it concrete, pre-mortem the failure modes, stack the deck, then take the first action.
Use this when you have a goal that matters but keeps slipping — annual planning, a personal project, a habit you want to install, or any ambition that needs more than good intentions. Run one row per goal.
The nine steps
Dream
Name the ambition in plain language — what you actually want, not what sounds impressive.
“Write a book I'm proud of by December — not "hit the bestseller list."”
Why?
Why does this matter to you? A weak why loses to every other priority when things get hard.
“It's fun, I've committed to publishers, and it's a forcing function to clarify what I believe.”
SMART Goal
Make it Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Time-bound. Prefer goals 100% within your control — not outcomes that depend on gatekeepers.
“Complete a first draft by 30 June; final manuscript by 31 December.”
Habit?
Can this run as a habit or system rather than willpower? What would make showing up automatic?
“Write for 90 minutes every weekday morning before email — same time, same place.”
How surprised would I be if I failed?
Rate your genuine surprise on a scale of 1–10. Low surprise means you're not really committed yet — revisit the why or the goal.
“If I'd only be a 3/10 surprised, the goal isn't real enough yet.”
Top 3 reasons for failure?
Pre-mortem: name the three most likely ways this falls apart. Be honest, not polite.
“Travel disrupts my routine; I over-edit instead of drafting; I say yes to speaking gigs that eat writing time.”
WHO can help?
Who can coach, challenge, or hold you accountable? Name specific people, not vague "support."
“Editor for fortnightly check-ins; writing group for monthly read-throughs; co-founder to protect calendar blocks.”
HOW can I stack the deck?
What environments, resources, calendar blocks or constraints make success the default?
“Book a writing retreat; remove social apps from phone; pre-schedule six months of protected mornings.”
ACTION
What's the smallest concrete next step you can take in the next 24 hours? Not planning — doing.
“Outline chapter one tonight; email editor to confirm first check-in date.”
The system only works if you finish on ACTION. Reflection without a next step is just journaling.
Related capabilities
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