You probably know some of the foundational steps to help you achieve a goal: Put it in writing. Create an action plan. Block time for it in your calendar.
Important basics, for sure. I probably would never achieve a goal if I didn’t take those steps!
But I do a few other things as well – things you might not read about in goal-setting literature or in the myriad ‘change your life’ articles floating around the interwebs. I’m sharing five of those non-ordinary actions with you today in hopes that they help you achieve your bold and meaningful goals this year, too!
1. Conduct a mindset refresh.
Once I commit to a goal, I infuse my mind with inspiration and insight on the topic.
Before going for a walk or hopping in the car, for example, I’ll download a few podcasts related to my goal (or just motivational in general). I choose books, visit blogs, read magazines, and search for informative and inspiring Facebookand Instagram accounts that support my goal as well.
One of my Guiding Principles this year involves ‘creation over consumption;’ I am selective in what I choose to consume to ensure it helps me with what I strive to create.
2. Design an environment for success.
If your goal is to finish your book, setting up a writing area with the necessary tools of your trade (and without the distractions!) will prove useful.
If your goal involves healthy eating, you’ll benefit from removing unhealthy options from your pantry or making the healthy ones visible and convenient.
When embarking on a new goal, do what you can to set yourself – and your environment – up for success from the get-go. (Quickly, though; don’t let this serve as procrastination.) Not only can this accelerate your success, it can demonstrate an increased level of commitment.
3. Secure goal-specific support.
I love to learn, but if someone can shorten my learning curve when it comes to achieving big goals, I am ALL for it!
My goal-specific support often comes in the form of hiring a coach. I’ve hired marketing coaches to help me reach marketing goals, business coaches for business goals, life coaches, writing coaches, mentor coaches … you get the idea.
In addition to trained coaches and other professionals, also consider mastermind programs, accountability partners, and supportive groups. We’re better together!
4. Create a visual anchor.
Find or make something that – and this next part is key – is outside of your own head that reminds you of your goal.
Craft a vision board. Print a photo. Locate a pendant, bookmark, or figurine that represents your goal. I recently had a client who created a mock bank statement showing a balance in the amount they wished to earn; another who designed a cover – complete with endorsements and reviews – for the book they were writing.
A visual reminder, displayed in a space you see frequently, can serve you both consciously and subconsciously.
5. Ask ‘why’ multiple times, in multiple ways.
If you’ve known me for a minute, you know I’m going to encourage you to filter your goal through your values and your Purpose Statement. 🙂
In addition, get crystal clear on your ‘why’ for this particular goal. Some questions I ask myself: Why does the goal matter to me? How will my life, and others’ lives, be transformed by the goal? What emotional connection do I feel with the goal?
Take the example of a client whose goal involved getting more streamlined and organized in his business: Why? To feel more on top of his days. Why? To run the business instead of the business running him. Why? To free up time and mental energy. Why? To become more involved and fully present with his family and friends. Why? Because when he thinks about his values, purpose, and legacy, his relationships top the list; when he imagines himself at his 90th birthday party, he wants his family and friends celebrating the meaningful and loving role he played in their lives.
Now that’s a powerful why.
What helps you make a strong start with a new goal? Which of these items resonates with you? Share your insights with me on Facebook or Instagram!
Christi Hegstad, PhD, PCC is the Certified Executive + Personal Coach for difference-making achievers! Clarify your vision, free up time, and confidently reach bold goals with meaning and purpose! Contact us today for coaching, speaking, and Mastermind opportunities, or click here and fill in the blue box to join our email community.