I like the systems and the goals.
This is a debate that rages on the web.
On one side, the advocates of goals.
On the other, those who claim that only "systems" (habits) work.
I think we should mix the two.
Here is why?
1. I have more than 2000 days of streak on Duolingo in German, yet I don't progress anymore.
Why?
I don't have a specific goal (right now)?
I was still doing my Duolingo of the day when I had one(goal), but my practice was more intense. I tried harder exercises. I wrote down my common mistakes in a notebook and did more German around Duolingo.
The mix of all this made me progress faster.
2. And I feel that way about running or chess or…(you name it)
This is related to the theory developed by Anders Ericsson in his book Peak: Secrets from the New Science of Expertise.
To progress, you can't just practice. You have to deliberately get out of your comfort zone and review what works and what doesn't (feedback loop)
3. So why deprive yourself?
The system allows you to start, maintain and sustain.
Goals allow you to add intensity over time.
Mix the two.
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