Happiness comes from moving toward our goals. However, it is not enough to set goals and keep them in the back of our mind. Most of the times, it is hard enough to make changes and accomplish what we desire. In order to move toward our goals, we need to do something regularly, even if it seems like a small accomplishment.
Only when we make progress, we may feel more powerful and start planning for the next step; this process is not simple as it entails hard work and persistence; but in the end it can become a source of pleasure in our lives. Goal pursuit and well-being reveals an interesting cycle between progress on our goals and our reports of happiness and life satisfaction.
We may take it for granted that we can set goals, however most of us have never been taught how to set realistic goals. In this regard, the basic principle is firstly, to set those goals that we can actually achieve and then create a daily routine and adopt habits in order step by step to accomplish them. What is more, persistence, determination and hard work are important to keep us motivated toward our goals while it is also essential to adopt habits in order to overcome procrastination.
4 habits to achieve your goals
#1 Examine your feelings with curiosity
When you find yourself procrastinating, look at what’s going on in your mind
#2 Embrace your near wins
These come close to success and show you progress and what needs improvement
#3 Don’t make excuses
Make a habit of refusing to give in to excuses and empower yourself to keep moving
#4 Stay humble
Even when you reach your goals, don’t forget there is always something new to learn, grow, or improve in
7 Tips for developing realistic goals
Key #1 – Set SMART goals
To make sure your goals are clear and reachable, they need to be Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Time bound.
Key #2 – Keep a journal
Writing down our goals helps us commit and gives us something we can visually see and reflect on. Keeping a journal of the actions needed and recording progress are also important.
Key #3 – Focus on short term
Short term milestones helps us stay on track, making the long term goals much more manageable.
Key #4 – Measure progress
Determine the appropriate method to determine progress; quantitative measurement is more precise and easier than qualitative.
Key #5 – Set one goal at a time
Changing too many aspects of our life may end up being unrealistic. Use a one-goal strategy and once you take control, slowly add more goals into the mix.
Key #6 – Schedule in time
The more time you allocate per day to your goal, the faster you’ll achieve it. Create a daily success routine toward that end.
Key #7 – Set goals you actually want to achieve
Visualize your life and the direction you want it to take and only pick goals you want to achieve.
The 3 Ps to achieve your goals: Patience, Persistence, Passion
Pain + Reflection = Progress
Progress = Happiness
BUILDING RESILIENCE: Read in this series
