From Default to Designed
Motivation is the most picked-up and dropped-off item on social media.
We scroll, we save, we swear this is the one…until life throws us the first inconvenience.
Then it’s back to default settings.
“You do not rise to the level of your goals. You fall to the level of your systems.” — James Clear
Motivation wears lipstick, pretending to be the transformation you’ve been waiting for.
She struts in, loud and glittering, whispering,
“This time will be different.”
But she’s a fleeting guest,
gone before the morning sun.
Change doesn’t come in costume.
It shows up dressed
as a system—steady, unshakable, open and ready.
Systems. Systems. Systems.
When I first heard about using systems in personal life, I was resistant.
One: I’m not a business.
Two: Why does everything have to be so structured? Like, let me live—geez.
But now that I’ve decided I want to live differently, I’m revisiting the things I once shunned.
And honestly? I’ve opened my mind and heart to real, lasting change.
I was still skeptical, though.
So I looked up what systems are and why everyone kept quoting James Clear (author of Atomic Habits).
To be honest, I’m not big on trendy books. I prefer what’s authentic. But I do love personal development. And here’s what I found:
To me, systems are a specific way of doing something—consistently and, when possible, automatically.
They reduce chaos and decision fatigue. But more importantly, they protect my energy and free up my mind for what truly matters.
Systems aren’t just about efficiency, they’re about alignment.
They create space for clarity, creativity, and growth to flourish.
Structure first. Flow second.
That’s how I sustain what I build.
So how does this actually show up in daily life?
Start by realizing: you already have systems.
You have a hygiene system—brushing your teeth, showering, skincare, deodorant, lotion, oil…all in a certain order.
You have a morning and night routine—from wiping your eye crust to removing those 50 extra pillows before bed.
You have systems for food, money, sleep, work, and social life.
Systems aren’t just organized spreadsheets or productivity hacks.
They’re anything you do on repeat.
If you’ve ever made coffee or brushed your teeth the same way every day, you already have systems.
The power comes when you go from default to designed.
Now let’s improve your systems so they help you become your best self.
Let’s begin with mindset.
If your goal is to lose 30 pounds, don’t start with “I want to lose weight.”
Instead say: “I’m becoming the version of me who prioritizes health.”
That simple shift roots the habit in identity.
Next, put your system on easy mode.
- Meal prep in advance.
- Set your workout clothes out the night before (yes, even the socks).
- Fill up your water bottle.
- Plan your workouts ahead of time.
- Clear the junk food out.
Now, per Clear’s method—make it attractive.
Pair the habit with something enjoyable.
- Create a hype playlist for your workout sessions.
- Find a healthier version of your favorite dessert—and actually make it.
This reduces the need to rely on Miss Piggy Motivation and builds a frictionless system that practically runs itself.
You’re making progress, but now comes consistency.
Systems only work if you work them.
Let’s be real: your systems won’t be bulletproof every day.
But those missed days? They’re just data.
They show you what to improve next.
Ask yourself: How can I make this one step better tomorrow?
And keep asking.
Because transformation takes time.
You won’t see 6-pack abs after one round of sit-ups.
This is where tracking comes in.
When you track your habits and reflect weekly, you see the system more clearly.
- Maybe you stacked too many habits too fast.
- Or maybe you’re crushing it, and it’s time to level up.
Either way, tracking gives you the feedback to make informed, aligned adjustments.
Your space is also part of your system.
Design matters.
If your environment is misaligned—it’s working against you.
And this goes beyond your home.
What’s in your refrigerator, your schedule, your community, your thoughts…
If it’s not aligned, it’s time to redesign.
Introducing: 100 Days, One You
I created a habit tracking system and mini-guide called 100 Days, One You—to help you build systems that serve your future self.
It’s designed to keep you accountable, aligned, and growing.
Whether you’re starting small or going all in, this guide helps you measure what matters—you.
You’re not a spreadsheet — you’re a spirit having a human experience.
So breathe. Dance. Mess up. Laugh mid-meltdown.
Life isn’t a formula to follow — it’s a miracle to feel.
Systems can serve you, but you?
You’re here to live.
Make it make sense, but make it magical, too.
Peace out. Peace in.
– Spivey J.