It’s that time of year again when we reflect on the past year’s successes/failures and make plans for a brighter future. Before making that list of New Year’s Resolutions, take time to assess your commitment level. Why? Because declaring goals is just the first step in the process. The real key to success is to never give up! Let’s think of it like running a race.
1. Clear the First Hurdle
Stating a goal is one thing. Writing down a goal is even better. But what happens when you run into your first roadblock? Getting past the first roadblock is usually the natural stopping point for most people. You might give yourself permission to quit by chalking up to “at least you tried”. The key word in the phrase is undoubtedly “least”. Why? Because if the first obstacle indicates you should quit, you are giving the “least” amount of effort. No wonder nothing ever good happens to you; you quit before it even has a chance to get started!
Do not quit when the going gets rough. Clear the first hurdle and keep going.
2. Push Past the Discomfort
You have made it past the “first hurdle” and the goal still alludes you. Now is the time to quit, right? Wrong. When things do not go the way you envisioned them, it usually means you need to step back and reassess the approach. It doesn’t mean it won’t happen, it might just mean you to rethink how to get to it. This is a difficult concept for most people to grasp because failure is scary and looking like “a failure” is even worse. However, that is a giving up mindset. It happens when we confuse learning with failing. In other words, do not mistake a learning opportunity as a failure.
When you do not “get it the first time”, learn what can be done to move forward and push past the discomfort.
3. Finish Strong
Once the goal is within grasp, do not compromise values or the ultimate outcome to just simply accomplish the goal. Make sure that what you set out to do is what you have done. For example, if you want to start a business and you set a goal to gain investors, don’t accept the remaining capital needed to get the business off the ground from a family member who has extra cash laying around. Make sure to get the funds from interested investors that can be ongoing assets to the business. (e.g. This would be like starving yourself to lose that extra pound instead of sticking to an exercise regime and healthy eating habits you worked hard to follow.)
Finish strong so you can perpetuate the momentum and continue to grow.
4. Plan the Next Race
Once you reached the goal, do not lose momentum. Take time to reflect the lessons learned and establish a new goal to work toward. Savor the moment and use it to bolster your self-esteem going forward. The next goal might be even harder, but if you plan for it, persevere and finish strong you will reach that goal too.
Remember: “It is the journey that matters, not the destination.” So, “Never give up” and be prepared to add your name to the multitudes of successful people who have lived by this creed throughout history!
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