How do you set goals that are challenging but not overwhelming and motivate you to grow?

Basic behavior change takes about three months to occur. So whenever you start keep the three-month marker in your mind so that you will be able to create sustainable long-term changes. More sustainable change can occur by looking at things from a long-term range to help motivate us more. Try to not focus on what needs to be accomplished tomorrow, instead look at what you can accomplish in that year and work backward. That way you can compartmentalize events into months and feel a sense of accomplishment in each goal achieved.

One thing I like to add is that your goal must be part of a higher purpose. There must be a BIG WHY behind it. Then you will never lose the motivation in pursuing it. When challenges come to delay the fulfillment of your goal, you will get more creative and more determined. You will realize that quitting is not an option.

Our career journeys don’t take us in a straight line. There are turns, loops and setbacks that provide opportunities to gain wisdom and grow. As we gain experience and knowledge, we should regularly check in with our goals to: -Ensure there’s still alignment for the desired end result. -Reframe or add detail. -Confirm if the strategy to achieve remains feasible. -Check for more efficient means to achieve. -Identify any updates. Setting goals helps guide our direction and focus in our careers. Reassessing goals helps us refresh our commitment and enthusiasm to reach the level of success we envision for ourselves.

Never be afraid to set BIG goals. It is better to fall short of a BIG goal than achieve a small goal. When the British were ruling Bhaaratam (India), Mahatma Gandhi’s goal was to make the British quit his country. It was not a small goal like deciding to eat healthy or to walk 2 miles every day. Gandhi would have continued his efforts to achieve his goal even if it took him a lifetime. We must change our attitude towards what we consider as success or failure in a goal. Falling short of our goal is NOT a failure. Quitting is a failure. If you have NOT quit, you are a success. If you show persistence, then you are a success. If you are making progress, then you are a success. If you are at your full potential, then you are a success.

I find setting microgoals helps. Sometimes a goal may feel overwhelming, like doing something 7 days a week. You can start with doing it a couple days a week and work from there. Also, focus on being consistent. Even if it means not achieving certain goals on particular days. Just take your time and get back to it. Dopamine is released even while we take steps to achieve the goal, not just when it's attained. Take rest, but don't quit! ??