Add and Subtract Exercise

This is a short but powerful exercise that is great to do at the end of the year. It helps you to set goals with very clear categories.

The categories are…WHO, WHAT, WHEN, WHERE and WHY.

Start by making a list of 3 columns. The first column writes down these words that begin with W in vertical format. Then on column two put “ADD” and column 3 put ‘SUBTRACT”

Now you fill in each box. You are essentially asking what do I want to add and subtract in each of these categories.

1. WHO.
   Ask yourself which people you need to add and subtract next year. Do you need to hire new team members? Hire a mentor? Hang with friends more? And who needs to have less access to? Who needs to be cut out completely? Write down your answers.
2. WHAT
   Next, ask yourself what you want to add to your life to make it better. Focused time with family? Take your workouts up a notch? Learning your numbers? And what needs to be cut out? Maybe you’re in too many meetings? Maybe you need to cut lifestyle expenses?
3. WHEN
   The next category is “when” so think of when in your day needs addition and subtraction. When will you have self care? When will you spend time with family? When will you work? When will you not?
4. WHERE
   Now we dive into where you want to go next year. Do you need to get into a room with like mind individuals? Where do you want to travel? Where do you need to spend less time? Too much social media?
5. WHY
   This is your motivators for next year. We are much more motivated by clear outcomes that come from us working hard. If your why is “to keep it all together” then you are operating with fear and not with excitement. Maybe you have a savings goal? Maybe you have a house remodel? Or you want to save for a down payment on a home or car? This is your chance to dream so dream big and create a why that excites you for next year.