If you know me then you know I spend time regularly at the gym. This has become a lifestyle habit to keep my chest from sagging to my drawers and manage stress.
During this time of year I smile and get mildly frustrated at the same time. During the first couple weeks of the year the attendance at the gym increases dramatically. Around the middle of the month though . . . it drops closer to normal.
What happens?
The same that happens to all of us when we start slipping on our goals. One of the following three factors is no longer effective.
Vision
“When we know why we do what we do, everything else falls into place.” Simon Sinek
Whether the goal is becoming healthier or reaching a specific professional goal we often get distracted from an unclear vision. We may have a goal, but do we have a clear reason why we want to accomplish the goal?
When the goal first comes into our awareness, we should ask “why?” as many times as we need until we determine the real reason we want to achieve the goal. This clarity will help us maintain focus when multiple other priorities attempt to distract us.
Plan
“If you fail to plan, you are planning to fail.” Benjamin Franklin
This has been quoted by many people but originated with Benjamin Franklin. We have set a goal and have a clear vision of why we want to accomplish the goal. The next key is creating a definite plan. A definite plan does not need to be an A-to-Z map of every detail. It can be as simple as one step.
Try this. Write down your goal at the top of a page of paper and then make three stair steps. What are the three steps you would need to take to accomplish the goal? There may be more, but what are the major steps that, if you continually execute, you will accomplish your goal? Write it down and then move into action.
Persevere
“Everything worthwhile is uphill.” John Maxwell
This is the most challenging key of the three. We must persevere. Whether the goal is losing weight or growing your business, it will take discipline and effort. We will have days we want to quit, and days we fail to execute the plan.
Quite honestly, we will have days we flat-out fail.
Get up.
Take the next step and continue to climb the hill developing the habits that will help you accomplish your goal. Surround yourself with people who will support, encourage, and push you to keep going.
Setting the goal is the easy part, but executing can be the most challenging. Which of these areas are you stuck in? Do you need help with prioritizing as you start this new year? Check out this resource to help you with prioritizing this year. Lead Well.
© 2023 Wheeler Coaching Systems
