Here's a question I like to ask myself when I feel stuck:

If an outside observer watched me for a week, how serious would they say I am about achieving my goals?

Think about it.

It's easy to convince ourselves that we're fulfilling our responsibilities. That we're doing what's necessary to build the life we want. That we're showing up with energy and focus on a daily basis.

But what would an unbiased observer see?

• Would they see consistency, discipline, and courage?
• Would they see avoidance, fear, and distraction?

There are two types of priorities in life:

1. The priorities you say you have
2. The priorities your actions show you have

I call the gap between the two the Say-Do Gap.

And here's the uncomfortable truth: For most of us, it's significant.

We say we want to build the business, write the book, get in shape, or be more present with our loved ones.

We start the year with these exciting, ambitious goals. We write them down, tell everyone about them, and envision how great our life will be when we achieve them.

But somewhere along the way, we slip up.

A tiny slip begets another one. A tiny crack grows larger. It's too small to notice, and it's too easy to delude yourself into thinking that you're still on track, that you're still committed.

But a silent shift has taken place:

The reality of our days belies the ambition of our years.

The Say-Do Gap has been created––and until we recognize it, we will fall short of living the life we want.

So, reflect on the question this week:

What would an outside observer say about how serious you are about your goals?

Don't tell me your priorities. Show me them. The answer is found in the action.