“Those who have a ‘why’ to live, can bear with almost any ‘how’.”
― Viktor E. Frankl, Man’s Search for Meaning

Our mission at ERPS Group, Inc. is to to help others find purpose in their life, attain financial freedom, and overall happiness and comfort in life.

One of the most impactful books I have ever read is, Man’s Search for Meaning, by Viktor E. Frankl. Written in 1946, Viktor Frankl chronicles his experiences as an Auschwitz concentration camp inmate during World War II, and describes his psychotherapeutic method, which involves identifying a purpose in life to feel positively about, and then immersively imagining that outcome. This was as a result of the most depressing influence of the camps, the total uncertainty as to how long one would be there—living a “provisional existence of unknown limit.” Many prisoners felt unable to live for the future or have a goal because they had no idea when or if they would be released. For prisoners who chose to live totally in the past, shutting out the reality of their lives in the camp and overlooking opportunities to make something positive of their experiences, life became pointless and meaningless.

Although we may not live in such extreme and unimaginable circumstances, this principle still applies to our everyday lives. Having a vision for what we want out of life is a crucial aspect, and the first step in your journey. Our desires and goals can often be daunting. Holding ourself to such a high standard is not only intimidating, but often hindering our progress without the right action plan.

Developing your vision consists of self awareness, and goal setting. Breaking down your goals into smaller chunks will not only make it easier to start, but achieve quicker. The three main things to consider when you’re working on developing your vision are the: WHAT, WHY, and HOW. Take out a piece of paper, and write them down.

The WHAT: is the goal. What is your idea, your desire, your vision. Write down everything that comes to mind, no matter how big or small, significant or silly. Your list should include things from all aspects of your life, whether its health, wealth, relationships/love, or materialistic possessions. Get specific, if your goal is to lose weight write down how much you’d like to lose, and by when. If you desire a new job or a car, write down exactly what kind.

The next step is the WHY. As you’ve probably already guessed, the why is the reason for those desires or goals. This is perhaps the most crucial step, and requires self evaluation. The WHY needs to be strong, you have to want it so bad that you’re willing to do anything to get it. Mark Cuban has a great quote when it comes to starting your own business, and its that you should start a company unless its an obsession and something you love. The same applies for yourself and your goals. The deeper your desire, the more meaning behind your goal, the more you’re willing to sacrifice, and the more you visualize it, the more likely you are to achieve it. For each WHAT that you have written down, take the time to write down WHY you want it. If the reasons aren’t good enough, or you’re not passionate/willing to sacrifice for it, cross it off your list.

Lastly comes to HOW, and the good news is that you’ve already started. Taking the time to read this, and writing down the WHAT and WHY, are the first steps of the HOW. To complete the process, you will need an action plan. An action plan is a proposed strategy or course of action, so lets start writing.

First, you’ll need to identify your objectives. The good news is that you already have, the WHAT. Make sure you’re being realistic, your objectives should be achievable and measurable.

Second, write down clear steps needed to achieve the objectives. Write down what you need to do, and break it down. Breaking down large goals makes them significantly less intimidating, and easier to get started on. How will you achieve every single little component of your goal? Here is a quick example; Objective: to lose weight, the steps you would need to take are 1- to be in a caloric deficit, whether through diet or exercise. 2- Create a diet plan you can stick to, don’t like grilled chicken? Don’t include chicken/rice/veggies as a staple of your meal, get creative and find recipes you’ll enjoy that will help you stay on track. 3- Figure out an exercise regimen. If you hate running or going to the gym, find alternatives that you will enjoy, whether is yoga, bike riding, rock climbing etc.

Third, set a deadline by which you want to complete your objectives by and stick to it. Make sure you’re being realistic, and patient with your expectations. Its nearly impossible to lose 50 lbs or become a millionaire in a month. Once you figure out your deadline, sign your name under it. Make sure you really commit to it.

Lastly, take action and implement everything you’ve written down. Recommit often, and keep your eye on the prize. Motivation wares out, your vision will keep you going no matter what if your WHY was strong enough.

Remember, its all in your hands.