The powerful secret to setting goals that stick

"If you can tune into your purpose and really align with it, setting goals so that your vision is an expression of that purpose, then life flows much more easily." - Jack Canfield

In my last edition of the Nuggets, I encouraged you to check in on the goals you set at the start of the year. How did that go? If you found yourself a bit disappointed or telling yourself, "I don't have time for this," you're not alone. But with September just around the corner, August seems the perfect time to adjust your course.

Consider it your 'back-to-school plan,' so when you raise a glass at the end of the year, you’ll be toasting to progress, not regret.

Before I reveal the secret to?setting goals that stick, let’s address why sticking to goals can feel so daunting—and why the actions needed to achieve them often fall by the wayside.

???One major hurdle? Deciding which?goals to pursue in the first place. In our world of endless possibilities (if you’ve got the means), it’s easy to get overwhelmed. What if you choose one thing and?have to miss out on another?

The other day,?a friend mention her desire to pick up guitar lessons again. In the same breath, she said she doesn't?have the time. I also know she spends hours each week baking cakes. Would she be willing to carve out just 2 hours from baking to accommodate music lessons and practice? The answer might be no,?but at least it becomes a conscious choice between different priorities.?

???There’s also a deeper, often hidden question that might be holding you back: If I change, what do I stand to lose? Take, for example, someone who wants to set better boundaries and learn to say 'no.' This is one of the most common objectives in my coaching practice.

On the surface, it seems like there’s everything to gain. Yet, the real struggle comes from worries about how others will perceive the change. "If I start saying 'no' more often, will people think I'm difficult? Will I still be seen as a team player?" These fears are valid and worth exploring. Our minds are wired to avoid potential loss, even at the cost of missing out on significant gains.

???So, what’s the secret to setting goals that stick? The key is alignment. Your goals must resonate with your deeper purpose and values. To reach any goal, you need consistent action and persistence. But if your goals aren’t in sync with your vision for yourself, you’ll struggle to follow through. And rightfully so!?

Call to action

Before setting your goals, ask yourself:

What version of myself do I want to be in x years??

(If you’re unsure, set x = 5).

Consider the roles you play—parent, partner, friend, leader—, visualise yourself in those roles. Explore what you see. This way, I'm sure you'll?identify the common values that will ultimately guide you across all aspects of life.

Once you've captured that vision of yourself—your v2.0—the actions you need to take to get there will flow more easily.?

Enjoy the journey!

Chris

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