Invest in the process. 

The process yields the results. 

This thought occurred to me while practicing shifting exercises. Sure, you can throw your hand around the violin and hit the correct note sometimes. But if you want to guarantee you'll hit the correct note EVERY TIME stop focusing on the goal and concentrate on the action. 

Don't focus on where you're going; focus on how you're getting there. If the mechanics/thought process/work ethic/discipline/tools/form/etc. is in place, only then will your goals be reached (and of course with time, dedication and patience) and yield more fruitful and effective rewards. 

In the practice room AND in life.