How to Rock Your Goals in 2019
The term “resolutions” often brings frustration for many of us.
Upon hearing it, I’m reminded of disappointments and failures. I recall a year when I vowed to learn the guitar, commit to daily runs, and quit red wine for six months. Spoiler alert: the last one was never going to fly.
While the New Year symbolizes a “fresh start,” isn’t it better to set exciting goals—rather than mere resolutions—throughout the entire year?
In my youth, I believed that by my early twenties, I would have everything figured out. I thought life would fall perfectly into place, free from doubts, struggles, or unfulfilled ambitions. However, adulthood proved me wrong; life continually presents challenges and opportunities for growth.
HOW TO ROCK YOUR GOALS IN 2019
EMBRACING FORGIVENESS
For many, the inability to forgive often acts as the primary obstacle to personal growth. We become trapped in the past, holding grudges and avoiding accountability for our own lives. Blaming parents, friends, or circumstances can hinder us. Everyone has faced challenges; perfection is unattainable. If our lives were effortless, what would we truly strive for?
It’s crucial to not let our past dictate the future we envision. Sometimes, the hardest person to forgive is ourselves. We all make mistakes and find ourselves in situations we later regret, whether that’s not spending enough time with family or failing to meet personal goals.
The past is behind us. Your future begins today. While releasing old burdens can be difficult, we must ask ourselves, “Will I allow this to hinder my progress?”
IDENTIFYING YOUR BARRIERS
Are you paralyzed by fear of failure or judgment? As discussed in a previous post, success often pairs with failure. Anyone who has achieved anything significant has faced setbacks. Each failure serves as a stepping stone towards success.
Here’s the reality: you will fail.
Accept that failure is a part of the journey. It could be as minor as skipping a workout or as significant as a major project collapsing. What matters is your persistence. As long as you continue striving toward your goals, you will not be defined by your failures.
ELIMINATING EXCUSES
Your past or present circumstances can only dictate your future if you allow them to. While you might lack certain resources like support or funding, that should not define you. Many of our beliefs stem from external influences—family, education, and social interactions shape our self-perception.
Regardless of your history or current situation, do not let your present obstacles impede your aspirations. Cast aside your excuses, release limiting thoughts, and pursue what you want, even if it means starting small. Sometimes, success is built on consistent small actions. Change doesn’t always have to be monumental—small changes can lead to significant results. Focus on what you can achieve in the next 24 hours to inch closer to your objectives.
A FINAL ESSENTIAL ELEMENT: DISCIPLINE
Discipline is vital, yet challenging. It involves altering daily habits and consistently adhering to new routines. Without discipline, achieving your goals becomes nearly impossible.
A goal-oriented routine simplifies discipline, making it less daunting. Your habits determine your progress. There will be moments when motivation wanes, and quitting seems appealing. It’s easier to think, “I’ll just take a break today and try again tomorrow” or “I’m too tired” than to persist. Discipline requires postponing immediate gratification and occasionally embracing discomfort.
Establishing a new routine might initially feel overwhelming, but once you navigate the first few weeks, it becomes manageable. For further insights, consider reading The Power of Habit. Understanding how habits form and influence our actions can be beneficial in overcoming obstacles.
Creating a clear vision for your ambitions can be an essential motivator. When you eliminate excuses, your potential becomes evident. Your future isn’t limited by past or present circumstances. Discipline will support your behavior change and help you track your progress. If you’re only somewhat committed to your goals, you risk remaining stagnant. A mere wish without action leads to stagnation. When you truly commit and embrace discipline, you’ll uncover the determination needed to turn your ambitions into reality.
Lastly, remember: don’t get discouraged easily. Whether your goals are big or small, setbacks are inevitable. It’s never too late to pursue your dreams or establish new goals. However, commitment is essential—mere wishing won’t yield results. Taking action, rather than just discussing aspirations, will lead you on your journey.
