Reverse Engineering Success and Getting What You Want...

Ever wonder why some people seem to hit their goals with precision while others struggle for years and never quite get there? It’s not luck. It’s not magic. It’s clarity, intention, and execution. But most people get this part backwards.

Instead of starting with a clear vision, they jump into action with no real plan. They try different things, hope for the best, and then get frustrated when they don’t see results. If that’s ever been you, don’t worry—there’s a better way.

Think Backwards to Move Forwards

Whatever you want—better health, stronger relationships, financial independence, early retirement—you need to start with the end in mind. Not just a vague idea, but a clear and specific picture of what success looks like for you.

If you don’t know exactly where you want to go, how do you expect to get there?

• If financial freedom is your goal, what does that look like? A certain amount of money? A passive income target? A specific lifestyle?
• If you want to improve your health, are you aiming to be leaner, stronger, or have more energy?
• If you’re focused on relationships, what kind of connection do you want to build with your partner, family, or friends?

Clarity is everything. Without it, you’re wandering. With it, you have direction.

Where Are You Right Now?

Once you know where you’re going, the next step is getting brutally honest about where you are today.

This part can be uncomfortable. It requires self-awareness and truth. But without it, your plan won’t make sense.

• If you’re aiming for financial security, what’s your current income, savings, and spending?
• If you want to transform your health, what are your current habits, diet, and fitness levels?
• If you want deeper relationships, how much time and effort are you currently putting in?

Being real about your starting point doesn’t mean beating yourself up. It just means understanding what’s working, what’s not, and what needs to change.

Reverse Engineering the Path

Now that you have both your destination and your starting point, you can figure out the actions and decisions that will get you there.

Most people overcomplicate this. But in reality, success is just about identifying the right moves and then executing them with consistency.

• If you want to build wealth, are you prioritizing investments and increasing your cash flow, or are you just hoping for a raise?
• If you want to get in better shape, is your routine set up to support muscle growth and fat loss, or are you just working out without a plan?
• If you want to improve relationships, are you being intentional about how you show up, or are you expecting connection to just happen?

Whatever the goal, the process is the same. Define the key actions, then build a rhythm around them. Make them a non-negotiable part of your life.

Stay Flexible, but Committed

No plan survives reality perfectly. There will be setbacks, challenges, and unexpected obstacles. The difference between those who succeed and those who quit is adaptability.

Life will throw curveballs—markets change, injuries happen, priorities shift. That’s okay. Success isn’t about rigidly sticking to a plan no matter what. It’s about adjusting while keeping your eyes on the goal.

Think of it like a GPS. If you take a wrong turn, it doesn’t shut down and give up. It recalculates and finds a new way to get you there. That’s how you should treat your goals.

• If a strategy isn’t working, tweak it.
• If your progress slows down, analyze why and adjust.
• If something unexpected happens, pivot but keep moving.

Adapt, refine, and stay in the game.

Why This Works

Reverse engineering success isn’t just a strategy—it’s a mindset shift. Instead of “trying and hoping,” you’re strategizing and executing.

This approach takes the guesswork out of achieving what you want. It gives you confidence, clarity, and a way forward. It eliminates frustration because you’re always working from a place of intention, not randomness.

And for me, I’ve always believed that success isn’t just about effort—it’s about alignment. Proverbs 16:3 says, “Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established.” When you move with purpose and direction, doors open that you never expected.

So here’s my challenge to you—pick one area of your life where you want a breakthrough. Define exactly what success looks like. Get brutally honest about where you are today. Then reverse engineer the actions that will get you there.

This is how success happens. One intentional move at a time.

If you need help mapping out your financial future and building a strategy to reach your goals faster, schedule a complimentary wealth strategy call. We’ll build a plan that gives you clarity, confidence, and a clear path forward.

Plan Right. Live Better.?- Mateo

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, legal, or professional advice. Please consult with a qualified professional before making any financial or investment decisions.