The Lion in the Mirror: Become Who You Truly Are With The 1-1-1 Method

Imagine a kitten gazing into a mirror and seeing a magnificent lion staring back. That’s the power of self-belief; that is the future you. The potential you glimpse in quiet moments, even if life feels chaotic.

The distance between where you are and where you want to be is often shorter than it seems. It’s easy to feel stuck: maybe your home feels messy, a relationship is strained, or an important personal goal remains untouched. Life doesn’t pause for us. While we’re busy with externally imposed ‘urgent’ things, our children grow, our gardens gather weeds, and our cherished dreams collect dust.

I’ve felt this deeply recently while starting my second book. Doubt crept in, whispering: that I wasn’t ready to start, it is not a good time, and what could I possible contribute? But I’ve learned that the key to progress is not waiting for the perfect time, it’s committing to action. You can also utilize this method, which I created and have used for many years myself. It helps with the big important goals. I have personally used it for my important goals like mindful parenting, finishing my Doctorate and completing my first book all with a busy life. I call it the 1-1-1 Method:

One hour a day. $100 a month. One year of commitment.

One Hour a Day: First, give yourself time. Set aside a minimum of one hour. Yes, one hour a day just for you. This can be hard for some, as you may work extra jobs or have care giving responsibilities or heath issues. If it is difficult to allocate one whole hour at first, then start with whatever you can, but try to make it at the same time every day, and someplace where you will not be disturbed with other distractions. Protect it fiercely. Whether it’s writing, painting, exercising, or mindful parenting; make it sacred. Turn off distractions. Be present.

$100 a Month: Second, set aside resources and allow yourself to use them. Allow yourself to spend at least $100 USD per month on this goal. This could be in investments, it could be for an activity, gym membership, whatever resources help support you for that one hour a day. Just like with time, if you cannot find that in your budget start smaller and work your way up to $100, or more if you can.

One Year of Commitment: Third, commit for a year to start. Yes, a whole year. Pick your start date and proceed for a year. Commit to it, you deserve it. Show up every day, and if you miss days then change your plans so you can recommit to yourself. This isn’t about perfection—it’s about persistence. You deserve to see what happens when you don’t give up.

Your dreams don’t belong on a shelf. They belong in your life. Your potential to become that magnificent lion in the mirror, is already inside you. 

So—what are you planning to start? What goal have you been putting off, that you want to achieve with your Compass Star?

Disclaimer: This article if for educational purposes only and is not personal financial advice.