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As the saying goes, ' It's easier said than done', so too with the goals we set for ourselves. We've all been there, we set our yearly goals with the best intention of following through. But time and time again we find that when it comes to the doing and following through we fail to take action and soon find that we've become unmotivated and disappointed with ourselves. If this is you it's time to stop beating yourself up and follow our tips below for staying on track.
Write your goals down
This is so important that it's basically the number one rule when you've decided on what goals you would like to pursue. When it comes to keeping appointments and meeting deadlines, most of us have to write them down—or else they somehow disappear until after they’ve passed. The same is true with your goals. Without visually concretising your aim in writing, your goal is likely to dissipate into thin air.
Break it down
Your goal will be easier to accomplish if you break it down into manageable steps. If you was thinking of designing your dream home you wouldn't plan or expects to build it in a single day: you would accept that it would take time and that it is built in parts, from the foundation up. The same is true with your goal. Break it down into weekly, monthly, or even yearly chunks, depending on how far out the deadline is. Follow the SMART goal setting acronym also. You can find a step by step guideline in our free resources section here.
Be Positive
When Henry Ford said, “Whether you think you can, or you think you can't – you're right,” this was to emphasizes how much your attitude would determine your outcome to be either success or failure. You should have the same reaction towards your goals: whether verbal or mental your focus should be to cultivate an attitude of positivity. Use affirmations, positive thinking, and encouragement from those around you that you trusts to support you.
Set a deadline
If your goal doesn’t have a due date, then you can always keep putting it off and fall victim to procrastination if things get in the way, or even if you just feel lazy. Put the goal on your calendar, in the notes section on your mobile phone, anywhere that you think will help to keep you conscious and focused on your goals and set a realistic completion time. If it’s something big, don’t try to cram too many other things into the days before your deadline.
Get Accountable
Studies have shown that when you have to report to someone else, you’re more likely to stay on track. Pick an accountability partner—it could be someone working towards the same goal, like a gym partner, or perhaps just a friend or family member. Set up times when you’ll check in and notify them of your progress.
Reward Yourself
When you hit a milestone, do something nice for yourself, whether it’s going out to lunch or buying a new piece of clothing. Plan a special event or prepare to claim a prize when you reach your goal. Use the same strategy and celebrate by treating yourself when you succeed.
Listen to episode 9 of the #ItsTimeToThrive podcast HERE for more tips on 6 Ways to Stay on Track with Your Goals.
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