Assessing the Mid-Year Point: Fine-tuning Your Goals

Amazing Leaders,

How has the first half of this year treated you?

As we reach the midpoint, it's a great time to reflect on our progress, resolve mistakes, accept defeats, and reevaluate our goals.

It's been a whirlwind for me personally, with various challenges and milestones, but I remain grateful for the growth lessons they've provided.

So, let's take this opportunity to assess where we stand, adjust, and approach the remainder of the year with renewed positivity and determination.

Here are five ideas to help you navigate the second half of the year and end it on purpose:

#1) TAKE INVENTORY

Reflect on the goals you set at the beginning of the year. Have you achieved them? If not, that's okay. Acknowledge where you are, learn from any mistakes or setbacks, and create a plan to address them. Determine what steps you need to take to surpass your previous efforts and keep moving forward. Personally, I've made some mistakes this year, and while I can't change the past, I can accept the failures, learn from them, and use those lessons to shape my future endeavors.

#2) EMBRACE CHANGE

Sometimes, it's essential to recognize when it's time to move on. This applies to relationships, academics, business, or even your job. Stand in front of a mirror and honestly ask yourself if what you're holding onto aligns with your true aspirations. Do you want to carry this burden for the rest of this year? Remember, only you know what's best for your soul, body, and well-being! Trust your instincts, and if it's necessary for your personal growth, consider it a pivot toward your destiny.

#3) SEEK MOTIVATION

We all have those not-so-good days when motivation is hard to come by. Identify the people, activities, books, songs, or places that inspire and uplift you. Schedule time with them or engage in those activities to recharge your motivation. For me, a dinner with a former supervisor-turned-friend was just the spark I needed to push forward. Find what works for you and replenish your inspiration when needed.

#4) CURATE YOUR CIRCLE

Take a moment to categorize the people in your life, from family and close friends to associates and acquaintances. Consider the level of access each category should have to you and how much time you give to different relationships. Prioritizing and investing your energy wisely is crucial, ensuring you don't pour from an empty cup. Surround yourself with positive influences and meaningful connections that contribute to your growth. *This I learned from my amazing mentor Attorney Joseph D. Feaster, Jr., Esq. years ago and never forgot!

#5) EMBRACE BREAKS

In today's hyper-connected world, taking a break from constant communication and digital distractions is vital for productivity and well-being. Can you disconnect from calls, texts, emails, and social media? Consider using tools like Leechblock, or something similar – even a timer on your phone, to limit your online time. Personally, I take a dedicated break from social media, external commitments, and clients at various times throughout the year. You may not be able to take a full pause from your day job, but even carving out a few hours or days of focused downtime can work wonders. Start small with planned mini sabbaticals that suit your schedule.

What do you think of these tips?

Will you apply at least one of them to make the most of the rest of this year?

Is there anything you would add?

Remember, there is always time to reassess, reevaluate, and refocus.

Let's approach the rest of this year, 2023, with determination and purpose.

All the best,

Dr. Natascha F. Saunders

www.TheYouthCareerCoach.com

www.NataschaFayeSaunders.com