Don’t Show Them Your Plan; Show Them Your Results

Why should you show them your results, not plans? When you tell people about your plans, there’s a brief moment of gratification. You might receive praise or encouragement, which can trick your brain into feeling like you’ve already accomplished something. This phenomenon is called the “intention-action gap.” The more you talk about what you’re going to do, the less urgency you may feel to take meaningful steps toward actually doing it. In this article, you will figure out why actions speak louder than words. Also, you will explore the 5 easy steps to help you focus on results.

My Six-Pack Abs Story

A few years ago, I told everyone I was going to get six-pack abs. I was so excited about the idea that I couldn’t stop talking about it. Friends cheered me on, and I felt great about my decision. But guess what? Months passed, and I barely stuck to my workouts or nutrition plan. The accountability I thought I’d gain from announcing my goal didn’t work. In fact, it backfired. I became comfortable with the idea of getting six-pack abs, and that comfort replaced the urgency to actually do the hard work. That experience taught me a valuable lesson: “The world doesn’t reward plans; it rewards results.”

Why Talking About Plans Can Be a Trap

Think about it. How many times have you heard someone say, “I’m going to start working out next week,” only to find them still sitting on the couch months later? Or someone claiming they’re going to write a book but never actually putting pen to paper? Talking can sometimes become a substitute for action. But the harsh reality is that plans without execution are just empty promises—to yourself and to others.

The World Responds to Results, Not Intentions

Results are tangible. They are proof that you’ve taken action and made progress. While your plans might be exciting, they don’t hold the same weight as results. When you show the world what you’ve achieved, you silence critics, inspire others, and, most importantly, build self-confidence.

Think of it this way: if you’re building a house, you don’t need to explain every blueprint and design choice to your neighbors. Instead, let them see the finished structure. When the house is standing strong, it speaks for itself. The same applies to your goals. Let your achievements do the talking.

Work in Silence; Let Success Make the Noise

The phrase “work in silence” isn’t about hiding what you’re doing out of fear or secrecy. It’s about focusing on the work itself instead of seeking external validation. It’s about dedicating your time and energy to what truly matters: progress.

When you work quietly and diligently, you free yourself from the distractions of external opinions. You’re no longer worried about impressing others with your plans because you’re too busy making them happen. And when the results come, they will speak louder than any announcement ever could.

The Power of Showing, Not Telling

When you let your results shine, you’re sending a powerful message:

1. You’re Disciplined

Results show that you’re willing to put in the effort, day in and day out, to achieve your goals.

Example: Consider an athlete who trains tirelessly without posting daily updates about their workouts. When they win a marathon or break a record, the result speaks volumes about their discipline. This embodies the idea of working in silence and letting success make the noise.

2. You’re Credible

Anyone can talk about what they want to do. Few actually follow through.

Example: A startup founder who spends less time hyping their idea on social media and more time building their product will eventually impress investors and customers with a working prototype or successful launch. This demonstrates the importance of showing results, not plans.

3. You’re Inspiring

Your results have the power to motivate others.

Take the example of a student who studies quietly for months and then graduates at the top of their class. Their success inspires others to focus on hard work instead of merely talking about academic goals. This is how actions speak louder than words.

5 Easy Steps to Help You Stay Focused on Results

It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking that sharing your ambitions is enough. But the world doesn’t change because of intentions. It changes because of actions. It’s not about what you say you’re going to do; it’s about what you actually do. And that’s where the power of results comes in. If you want to shift from talking to doing, here are 5 practical steps to help you focus on results:

1. Set Clear, Actionable Goals.

Break your big dreams into smaller, manageable tasks.

Example: If your goal is to write a book, start with a daily word count target instead of fixating on the finished product. Completing 500 words a day will eventually lead to a completed manuscript. This approach ensures you focus on execution over intention.

2. Keep Your Circle Small

Share your progress only with a trusted few who will hold you accountable and encourage you to keep going.

Example: If you’re starting a fitness journey, update a close friend or coach rather than announcing it to everyone on social media. This way, you avoid the “intention-action gap” and stay focused on results.

3. Track Your Progress.

Celebrate milestones along the way.

Example: If you’re saving money for a major purchase, use a visual tracker to see how close you are to your goal. Watching your progress grow will keep you motivated to achieve tangible outcomes, showcasing how results matter more than intentions.

4. Embrace the Grind

Success rarely happens overnight. Be prepared to put in the hard work consistently, even when no one is watching.

Example: Think of a musician who practices for hours each day. Their eventual performance showcases years of unseen effort. This highlights the importance of working in silence.

5. Reflect on Your Why

Stay connected to the reason you started in the first place.

Example: If you’re pursuing a career change, remind yourself of the passion or purpose driving that decision. This will keep you going when the journey gets tough, ensuring you stay focused on the bigger picture.

Takeaway: Show Them Your Results, Not Plans

At the end of the day, results have a power that words never will. They’re undeniable proof of your commitment, effort, and capability. So, the next time you’re tempted to share your plans with the world, pause and redirect that energy into action.

Work in silence. Focus on what matters. And when you’ve achieved what you set out to do, let your results tell the story. Trust me, the impact will be unforgettable. Achieving success quietly is the ultimate way to inspire others and prove that actions truly speak louder than words. As the great Benjamin Franklin once said, “Well done is better than well said.” Let your actions define you.