That cycle is all too familiar, isn't it? It's easy to get hyped about a goal, only to let it fade into the background with phrases like, "I'll start next week" or "I'm not really feeling it right now—I'd rather binge-watch a show." Before you know it, that initial spark of excitement dwindles, and a month later, the goal is hardly on your mind. Just getting started? Then look at The Year Ahead – Planning Guide for 2024.
To reignite that initial enthusiasm, it often helps to revisit the reasons behind the goal. Try breaking it down into smaller, manageable steps, making it less overwhelming. No one likes big change; it can be scary – but if you break it up into little change, it is more manageable.
Set reminders or cues to keep it present in your mind and consider finding an accountability partner or sharing your goal with someone supportive who can help keep you engaged. Sometimes revisiting your 'why' and adjusting your approach can rejuvenate that initial spirit and keep the momentum going.
When it is obvious that the goals cannot be reached, don’t adjust the goals, adjust the action steps. - Confucious
Goals vs. Aspirations – The Differences
In understanding goals versus aspirations, it's helpful to recognize their symbiotic relationship. Much like microeconomics fits within the larger framework of macroeconomics, goals operate within the broader scope of aspirations.
Consider a father wanting a closer relationship with his son—that's an aspiration. Using this aspiration as a guide, he can set a goal to enhance their bond, by planning two father-son outings each month for the next quarter.
Use your aspirations to hold the big picture, encompassing your hopes, dreams, and ambitions. For an added boost, weave emotion into it by giving it a name, then take the time to connect with that emotion physically, giving it permission to resonate within you. This emotional connection supercharges your steps towards an aspiration and the associated goals.
Visualize It
Harness the power of real-time visualization. Imagining yourself having it now is a potent method for setting intentions and goal attainment. By envisioning oneself in the present moment, already in possession of the achieved goal, one solidifies the intention. For instance, the father seeking a stronger bond with his son could picture himself basking in emotional warmth while gazing at his smiling son, feeling a genuine openness and affection in his heart.
Visualization acts as a catalyst, priming you to receive positive outcomes and act on opportunities. When you articulate your desires this way, it sharpens your focus and prepares you to begin noticing the incremental steps that pave the way toward your goal.
If you're uncertain about this technique or how to begin, consider employing an approach I favor: create a mental movie. Develop a screenplay detailing the scene—identify who's present, their dialogues, your emotional state, and even the commentary about you. This method can effectively jumpstart your visualization practice and doesn’t require you to believe in anything – it’s just a tool.
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Personal development is too broad a field to use a DIY (do it yourself) approach, especially when combined with the blind spots we all have. Professional coaching navigates these pratfalls while speeding up the experience significantly.
My formula for working with clients: Tell me where you want to be in 6 months and tell me you are motivated to make a change. If you have those, then you are ready.