Last night, the hubby and I watched Salmon Fishing in the Yemen. As is typical in our household, one topic starts us down a totally unrelated path. The conversation went something like…
Me: I wonder where the desert scenes were filmed?
Brett: Google it, I’m curious too.
Me: Ooh Morocco – we should totally go there someday.
Brett: Maybe next year – we’re both turning 40.
Me: Wow, that’s crazy – I can’t believe we’re turning 40. I’m gonna set some goals – like finally letting my hair grow.
Brett: You always say that.
Me: This time I really mean it. Collar length, like Emily Blunt in the movie. Let’s make a bet.
Brett: Okay, $500 on your 40th if you don’t cut your hair. Otherwise, you owe me.
Me: Done!
Morocco? Long hair? Turning 40? Where’s this going? Goal setting – that’s where.
There is often a misalignment between what we say we want and what we’re actually committed to. Running a marathon, losing 30 pounds by summer or growing our hair may sound like a great plan, but if we aren’t truly committed – we won’t succeed.
Over the years, I’ve played around with different versions of goal setting. I finally discovered, through trial and error, a method that leaves me excited about my future rather than overwhelmed or feeling like a big loser. And the good news is – it’s pretty simple.
Let’s begin by answering the big juicy question – what creates commitment?
- Desire: You have to want to change more than you want to stay the same.
- Belief: You must believe your goal is achievable.
- Willingness: You must be willing to do what it takes.
List your goals and ask yourself the following questions for each one:
- Is this what I really want?
- Is this goal reasonable and achievable?
- Am I willing to do what it takes to reach this goal?
If the answer to all three questions isn’t a resounding Y-E-S, then go back and revise your commitments until you can respond to each question with a hell yeah!
Even the slightest success will inspire you to keep moving in the right direction.
Think about it – I did it is more motivating than I failed again. When creating goals, always work to set yourself up for success. No accomplishment is too small.