For many of us the start of a new year is a natural prompt to set ourselves some new goals. But, how often have you set yourself goals in January, only to let them slip before the month is out? I can certainly put my hand up to that one.
An important aspect of setting effective goals is to ensure we’re creating ones that we find highly motivating over the long-term, are memorable (so we keep them in mind every day) and speak to our sense of self, or identity.
Often, we set goals based on an outcome, what we want to achieve, rather than who we want to be. The problem with that is our interest in these can wane quite quickly and we become demotivated. Goals tied to who we are (or want to be) are much more sustainable.
To set goals we’re more likely to stick to, it’s helpful to first visualise what it is we want to become. Vision helps us set our direction, where we want to go and why we’re heading there. At this stage we don’t want to think about the details of how we’ll get there, instead think big picture and feel the emotion attached to that idea.
These days I think of goal setting as a journey, it can be a bit like planning an overseas holiday (remember those?).
Our first thought to plan a vacation comes when we have a vision of where we want to go. Perhaps you saw an exciting city on tv, a friend told you about an amazing resort, or you’ve just always wanted to see the Northern Lights. If you’re like me you imagine yourself in the location, what you might be doing there, who you’re with and how much fun it will be. You don’t start by working out how you’re going to get there, what you need to pack and what visas you need – the planning and actions come after the vision.
So, if you’re wanting to set some new goals for 2022, may I suggest you put the planning aside to start with, and instead begin with the big vision that will inspire you into action. Take some time to sit quietly and dream big. Then you can work on the strategy to get there.
Once you have the vision, read these tips on writing your inspiring goals.
If you’re interested in knowing how a coach can help you to achieve your goals, call or email me for a chat.
Photo by Link Hoang on Unsplash