You know, sometimes we get so caught up in doing things just for the sake of doing them. We call it Busy being Busy We go through the motions, living for the next day, without really thinking about how effective our actions are. Sure, we might be efficient—showing up on time, getting tasks done—but are we truly being effective?

Let’s talk about the difference between efficiency and effectiveness.

Efficiency means doing things right. It’s about optimizing processes and being productive.

 But effectiveness? That’s about doing the right things. It’s making sure that what you’re doing aligns with your goals and values.

 Both are important, but we need to ensure our efficiency doesn’t overshadow our effectiveness.

In Matt Perman’s book “What’s Best Next,” he emphasizes the distinction between efficiency and effectiveness, highlighting that while both are important, effectiveness takes precedence. Efficiency is about optimizing processes and doing things right, whereas effectiveness is about doing the right things that align with your ultimate goals and values.

Perman uses the metaphor of a boat and a trident to illustrate this concept. Think of efficiency as the boat – it’s essential to have a well-functioning vessel to navigate the waters of productivity.

However, the boat alone won’t ensure you’re heading in the right direction. The trident represents effectiveness – the guiding tool that helps you aim at the right targets and steer your efforts towards meaningful outcomes.

Perman argues that true productivity is rooted in a solid understanding of one’s purpose and goals, which is why effectiveness must come first. It’s more important to ensure that the tasks you are performing are the right ones before worrying about how efficiently you can perform them.

This approach aligns with his broader perspective that productivity should be about loving others and glorifying God through your work, ensuring that your actions contribute positively to the lives of others and align with your 

Let’s Reflect on Your System

How effective is your system for getting things done? Do you even have a system? Simply answer the following questions honestly 

• How many times have you found yourself starting from scratch when you want to accomplish your goals?
• How often do you set goals, only to lose your way a few months down the line because you got distracted?
• Do you find it easier to commit to others than to yourself?

If these questions resonate with you, it’s time to evaluate and build a system that works.

The Power of a System

A system is what guides the entire process of getting things done. It’s your routines, rituals, habits, and workflows all working together. In the No GraGra Fold, we focus on five key elements for getting anything done. Today, let’s talk about two: You and Your System.

You: 

It starts with self-awareness. 

Know your strengths, weaknesses, 

and what works best for you.

Your System: 

This includes your habits, routines, and the tools you use how you use them and much more , We will go more indepth into this later. 

 A good system helps you stay on track and ensures you’re working effectively.

Building an Effective System

Effectiveness is about more than just crossing tasks off your list.

 It’s about aligning your actions with your goals and values. 

To be effective, you need a system that supports your unique way of working.

For me, effectiveness began when I realized I don’t study or work like others. 

I thrive in silence, which might be torturous for some, but it’s golden for me. 

Embracing my unique needs and building a system around them transformed how I get things done.

Your Turn

What’s golden for you? 

Have you found it? 

Embraced it? 

Do you have a plan for it?

In the upcoming emails, we’ll move from self-awareness to self-acceptance and then to self-action. Together, we’ll build a MAP. The Methodical Action Plan, or as I like to call it, the MAP Out System.

Stay tuned to discover how to leverage your unique skills and strengths to achieve your goals.

Thank you for joining me on this journey. Remember, No GraGra in everything you do—pause, slow down, and be the best version of yourself for yourself.

Talk soon,

DK Jonah

Founder, No GraGra Fold and Leverage