“A goal without a plan is just a wish” – Antoine de Saint Exupery
Setting goals can be an overwhelming task for some. Others worry that failing to achieve goals is worse than not having them. And some simply don’t see the value in setting goals. Successful people set goals that may be reachable and others that stretch them beyond what they thought possible.
“You don’t have to be great to start, but you have to start to be great.”- Zig Ziglar
Often when working with clients who are stuck despite their best efforts to think expansively, trying harder is just frustrating. To imagine a new way of being, another career path or a new relationship may test their limits and paralyze rather than energize. Yet, for some, the dream becomes the reality before the “official” action plan is created, analyzed and tested. Recognize, without judgment, that everyone differs in how they operate.
There is no magical accomplishment formula. Do you have a list of discarded dreams or short lived forays into some aspect of life change? What’s the purpose after all? How connected are you to what you think you want or what you really want?
Are your goals dreams with a deadline or just ideas to play with?
• Identify one goal that is important but not urgent • What makes this a priority? • Create a timeline • What materials, introductions or resources do you need to begin • Enlist allies with whom you can share your plan • Visualize the end result • Take the first step • Enjoy a small reward upon completion
Clients report that unexpectedly they’ve found a rhythm once they begin and the process gives them a greater awareness into personal avoidance behaviors. And, creating new habits is far easier than changing well entrenched patterns. Yes, it takes patience and practice but you too can become a goal digger !
However comfortable you assumed you were with change, it may morph into overwhelming anxiety that was never anticipated. This might be the ideal time to engage the support of a career coach with experience in helping professionals achieve better, faster, results. At KICKSTART Your Transition we offer a broad range of services to fit your needs.
©MWeisner2019