It’s so easy to get distracted while in pursuit of an important goal
It seems that while every step ahead may get you closer to your destination, it also presents you with turning points, junctures, and new paths of “opportunity” (which are often distractions in disguise).
Therefore, if you don’t keep your goals in the forefront of your mind and take discernable steps towards them, then invariably something shiny and alluring will knock you off track.
To eliminate the ‘shiny object’ syndrome, try these 6 laser-focused strategies to keep moving in the right direction:
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Know what you are really passionate about
Know who you are at your very basic core. Until you know your authentic self, it’s impossible to know what really drives you. And if you don’t know what drives you, you can’t expect to get where you want to go. If you focus on living your life in a way that fills your heart and allows you to fulfil your true purpose, then the rest will fall into place.
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Take time to plan before you set your goals
If you just jump in and start writing goals without seeing the “Big Picture” or even knowing where you want to go or what you want to accomplish – you can’t seriously expect to end up where you truly want to be at the end. And if you don’t know have a plan addressing the risks and rewards, there’s not much incentive to work do the work.
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Write down your goals
We all have heard this…but many of us just don’t do it. Studies show that by writing your goals down, your chances of success increase exponentially. Putting your goals in writing makes them tangible and reminds you of what you are working toward. Double-check to assure that they are “SMART” goals as described below.
The Formula for Making Sure Your Goals are S.M.A.R.T.
Plan your work and then work your plan!
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Align your daily choices with your goals
Every day, decide what ONE BIG thing and two smaller things you are going to accomplish that day that will help you to move toward your chosen destination. Accomplish the ONE BIG action step first.
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Share your goals with someone you trust
Create accountability with those closest to you by simply sharing your goals, so when you start to veer off track, they can help you through. Give them permission to be as firm as you feel you need them to be to insure you stay on track.
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Set milestones of success
Nothing is more frustrating than feeling like you are not making enough progress towards accomplishing a big goal. Set milestones of success where you can stop, celebrate and reward yourself for your accomplishments. But don’t sit for too long – get started again soon to keep up your momentum. Express gratitude for what you have accomplished!
Every day, everything that you do is either moving you toward or away from your goals.
Don’t let temptations, frustrations or the feeling of immediate gratification keep you from achieving what matters most. Keeping your goals top of mind will allow you to make the decisions that bring you the happiness and joy that will last a lifetime.
What steps will you take TOWARD your goals today?
About the Author, Katherine Hartvickson
Katherine Hartvickson is the founder of Quantum Ascendance HR Consulting. She is an experienced business consultant and success coach. Since leaving the corporate world in 2009, her clients include business owners and other seriously committed professionals and entrepreneurs who want to gain the confidence and skills to break through the barriers of success and achieve their ideal life.
What separates her service from others is her experience in leading large teams and developing top performers in corporate environments and because of this, clients achieve individual & financial rewards and the recognition they earned without sacrificing their personal life. If you are interested in knowing more, she can be reached at www.QuantumAscendance.com.
