Achieving ‘wellbeing’ isn’t a stagnant process, it requires personal growth and commitment. To make this a reality, it’s important that we set clear intentions that give us a real sense of purpose, clarity and focus.
Many of us set these goals at the start of each year, because it feels like a new beginning. But whether you’re on a cabbage smoothie diet or becoming an organisational ninja at work, some goals can seem more ‘aspirational’ than achievable. Research shows that 80% of people give up on their new year’s resolutions within two months. After all, there’s a big difference between wanting to see the outcome of change and actually wanting to go through the process.
But it doesn’t mean change is impossible, it just means you need the right plan in place to make it happen.
TURNING HABITS INTO LIFESTYLE
The first step is to identify a goal you really want to achieve. Then you need to think about how you’re going to achieve it, and by when. It’s often said that it only takes 21 days to form a new habit, but studies show it takes between 60 to 90 days to turn that habit into a lifestyle. So, if you want to see change, why not embrace the process with these three simple steps?
- Break your larger goal down into smaller milestones – this will give you a sense of achievement as you tick them off.
- Think about long-term sustainability and look for incremental gains day-to-day.
- Write your goal down and share it with others. According to recent research, you improve your chances of achieving a goal by 50% if you write it down, and 75% if you share it. So, it’s time to dig that notebook (or journal) out.
FOCUS ON THE JOURNEY NOT THE DESTINATION
When you set goals, know that the process won’t always go to plan, but the experience of challenging yourself and learning along the way will be fulfilling and rewarding. Focus on being kind to yourself during the process, rather than the end result, and you’ll see increased satisfaction.
Positive growth isn’t just for January, it’s for life. And there are new beginnings throughout the year… every day, every week, every month, every season. Start yours today.
Setting goals helps us achieve what we want to in life but often we have too lofty ambitions which aren’t sustainable. Find out the power of building small habits into your life to help you achieve your goals.