What are you working on?

What Are You Working On?

What are you working on? We all have goals at one point or another, some realistic and others aspirational. Sometimes, we go on a fault-finding mission when we don’t achieve our goals. Don't get too busy finding faults. Even fault finders must find a solution. Yes, extend yourself beyond your comfort zone.

What are your goals?

How do you plan on achieving your goals?

The goals you set for yourself and why you pursue them should not be left to chance, hope, fate, or luck. As you set your goals, what are your strategies for achieving them? Are your goals written on a vision board? Using a vision board is a great way to visualize your goals. Recognizing that having dreams does not mean you will achieve them is vital. It would be best if you did the work.

The goal you plan to pursue must be specific. Otherwise, your efforts will lack direction and focus. There is probably nothing more frustrating than not being able to identify progress. You can achieve your goals in successive approximations. Goal achievement requires motivation. Your successive approximations may catalyze you to continue pursuing your dream and help reinforce your progress. Evidence of progress is a healthy boost to your motivation.

Consequently, your vision board can be designed so that you focus on parts of your goal instead of the whole. For example, if you are a high school student, suppose your goal is to attend med school. In that case, you research pre-med programs, learn the admissions requirements, and select your top choices. After you choose your preferences, then apply. If you are accepted into multiple programs, you choose the one that closely aligns with your goals. Once you begin attending, your vision board will change to reflect your new medical school goals.

Not only should your goal be specific, but it should offer an appropriate level of challenge that is not too difficult. The value of having a reasonable level of difficulty works in your favor as it will consider your level of development. It is favorable to prioritize progress over perfection. Although it may be obvious to have realistic expectations about your endeavors, you are sometimes fixated on the outcome and not the process.

Therefore, frame your goal based on what you want and not what you want to avoid. So, your approach goal is stated as your preferred outcome. I want to attend and complete medical school. Conversely, your avoidance goal is to prevent setbacks or unpleasant experiences. There is the temptation to avoid mishaps, but these mishaps can serve as an opportunity for learning. This is also an opportunity to realize where you are in the process versus where you should be. Preoccupation with where you should be is counterproductive to motivation.

Embarking on the journey toward your goals is exhilarating. Stumbling blocks may exist, but your journey ends if you abandon your dreams. You will have an abundance of energy some days, so use those days as an example of what you need to replicate on your off days. Take a chance on yourself.

Empowering Minds. Inspiring Lives.

Reference

Chodron, P. (2000). When things fall apart: heart advice for difficult times. Shambhala, Publications, Inc.

Wade, C. & Tavris, C. (2008). Psychology. (9th ed.). Pearson.