50 for 50 Rule Set

As I set out to create this whole 50 for 50 thing I started looking at it as a system – and every system needs a rule set.  Given the complexity there needs to be flexibility built into the system to allow for variance but not enough to encourage avoiding the hard work that will be needed.

The top level rules (general rules not tied to specific goals)

1. There shall be an allowance of switching out of up to five goals for similar or MORE challenging goals. This is to allow for things like injuries or unavoidable conflicts.
2. There shall be as much data collection as possible. This means that wherever possible collect data points, photos, journal entries, etc. to collect as much data for retrospective (and capstone video).  Charts are a plus, Sparklines where applicable
3. There shall be public posts of progress on a monthly basis (starting Feb 13-March 13). If still off social media then on the WordPress blog.
4. There should be a internal journal entry at the end of each month to reflect on the last 30 days, what was achieved, where I’m falling behind, and what can be done to accelerate flagging goals.
5. You should move the needle on at least one goal a day. Even if the day is crazy – read a few chapters, relax listening to a new album, spend 10 minutes practicing guitar repertoire, etc.

Specific Goal Set Rules

1. When engaging media (albums, movies, books, etc.) you shall not multi-task. You must endeavor to put all your focus into consuming the media is an environment receptive to appreciating it (like listening to albums in a comfy chair, or watching movies in the movie room instead of the computer, etc.)
2. No cross pollination of goals – For instance making a pizza only satisfies the pizza making goals, not pizza making and international foods. Videos on how to play songs for the learning songs goal don’t count towards the learning hours.
3. Failing an abstinence goal (no diet soda, no fast food, etc.) shall not trigger a ‘lost day’ it is a temporary setback that is corrected immediately NOT ‘I’ll start again tomorrow’