I will consider these while I try to work out what the difference is between what Scott Adams calls a goal vs a system. I can be very pedantic, and I think that is getting in the way of understanding.
I googled "systems vs goals" and actually found another Scott Adams post on the topic, even about excercise :)
http://dilbert.com/blog/entry/systems/
I'm trying to get a more direct handle on the difference so I can better apply it generally.
It seems that when Adams says "goal" he is specifically talking about an endpoint. A destination. And that's a common definition I think.
His use of system seems to still have goals, they are just smaller and easily achieved. They also seem to be more related to triggers or starting points. For example, "go to the gym" not "workout" or "do X reps."
He also provides a relief valve in this case (not having to work out once he gets there if he doesn't feel up to it), so that the pressure of the expected follow through to "going to the gym" is relieved and thus not a deterrent.
So if I were to apply this to walking, it could be something like "put on walking shoes, exercise clothes, and go outside, everyday."
Or for better food: "Go to the store, buy some veggies I like," and maybe add on "go through prep work for cooking them." The relief valve could be that "I don't have to cook and eat this for dinner, but i do have to buy and prep."