How To Set Goals That You Actually Achieve
Do you have a big goal you want to achieve but you're feeling a bit discouraged about how to tackle it?
Or are you excited about a task you've set out to accomplish and you want to set yourself up for success? As someone who has started (and failed) at a lot of things, I know it can be a painful blow to our self-esteem when we don't achieve something we set out to do.
But here's the thing - it's perfectly normal to encounter some obstacles on the way to achieving goals. In fact, there is some science behind why achieving goals can be so daunting sometimes. So, how do we tip the odds in our favor and turn our dreams into reality instead of watching them fade away into the distance? Let's talk about what you need to know when it comes to setting healthy goals and establishing habits that empower you to make your vision happen. So, let's dive into what you need to know about setting effective goals and forming habits to help you bring your vision to life.
Habits – those little things we do automatically – can either be our allies, propelling us toward success, or our adversaries, holding us back. These habits are the foundation upon which we build the life we want. "The Power of Habit" by Charles Duhigg unpacks the science of habit formation and why it's a game-changer when it comes to accomplishing our tasks. Cultivating positive habits empowers us to navigate the path to our goals more effectively.
So, how do habits come about? It's like a simple three-step dance: cue, routine, reward. Habits basically form when we repeatedly do something (usually an action), triggered by a cue, and we feel good about it afterward. Eventually, these actions become second nature, turning into habits.
But let's be honest – forming healthier habits can feel as challenging as rollerskating uphill. Deeply ingrained habits can be tough to change, especially when factors like shame, low self-esteem, or underlying mental health issues come into play. So, when it comes to habit formation, patience, self-compassion, and a growth mindset are essential parts of the journey.
Now, when you're navigating the path to achieving your goals or helping someone else do the same, here are some tips to make building new habits a breeze:
1. Define Your Goal:
Start by setting a clear, specific, and measurable goal. Remember the SMART criteria: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. It's like having a roadmap for your dreams.
2. Break It Down:
Your big, audacious goal can be intimidating. Divide it into smaller, manageable tasks. Think of it as taking small steps instead of a giant leap. Dr. Robert Maurer's "One Small Step Can Change Your Life" highlights the power of “laughably small” steps.
3. Establish a Routine:
Consistency is key to habit formation. Connect your new habit to something you already do daily, like brushing your teeth. Over time, it'll become second nature.
4. Seek Accountability:
Share your goals with someone you trust and ask for them to help hold you accountable. They can keep you on track, cheer you on, and gently nudge you when needed.
5. Celebrate Progress:
Even small wins deserve acknowledgment. Reward yourself for each step forward - the dopamine hit you get will help further to lock in the new positive changes you’re after.
Of course, hitting some setback is inevitable. If you find yourself off track or grappling with your goals and habits, don't get discouraged. Instead, consider these three things to regain your momentum:
Reflect and Adjust: Pause and think about what caused the setback. Adjust your plan or habits to address any challenges you've identified. It's all part of the learning process.
Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself and skip the self-criticism. Setbacks are lessons, not badges of failure.
Stay Committed: Reconnect with your initial motivations and the reasons you set those goals. Rekindle your sense of purpose and dedication.
You may be wondering, "How long does it take to establish a habit or reach a goal?" Well, the timeline isn't set in stone. Research suggests it can vary from two to twelve months, but here's the thing—you don't have to be perfect all the time. (What a relief, honestly!) Whether it's once a week or three times a day, consistency matters more than perfection. So, focus on keeping the flame alive, not on never letting it flicker.
Remember, every tiny step, no matter how small, inches you closer to your dream life. Embrace the journey, celebrate your progress, and stay hopeful. Transformations happen through resilience and determination. You've got this!
BTW, my mission is help people love their lives so they never want to leave them.
Every week I do my best to share things with you that are inspiring, encouraging, and beneficial.
If you like:
🧠 Simple mental health tips and inspiration
🗓️ Events you can attend with amazing people
💡Random thoughts and musings as one human to another, including things I’m learning as a therapist, digital nomad,
and person who is trying to be her best!
I have a weekly newsletter I think you might like and I would love for you to be a part of it. Just click the link below!