If there is one thing you can be assured is that there will be no direct path from where you are now to where you want to be. There will be a twisting path of “potholes, sink holes and mine shafts” around which you must carefully navigate. You’ve likely been through times in your life where you thought “when will things ever change”. Then, when things seem the worst you find a path that leads you to the smoother, straighter road.
“Don’t wish it was easier; wish you were better. Don’t wish for less problems; wish for more skills. Don’t wish for less challenges; wish for more wisdom.” — Jim Rohn
Wherever the odyssey called life is leading you, progress toward your goals is still important. Through the challenging times, staying focused on what you want in life and why you want it will keep your spirits high and bring you joy.
The key, to a fulfilled life is to enjoy the journey no matter what. All you really have is now.
“Yesterday is History, Tomorrow a Mystery, Today is a Gift, That’s why it’s called the Present” — Eleanor Roosevelt
Use these tips to continue going for your goals even when life’s gets rough:
1. Know exactly what you want. What do you want from your life? When do you want it by? Is it possible? Do you have a time frame? When you’re sure, you can then focus your activities over the short and long term to achieve your goals.
2. Know Why. You have to know why. This will be the thing that keeps you going when things get rough. You may have a money goal but what money can buy is the why. Your list should include things that money can’t buy.
3. Your list should be short and to the point. Some good examples of life goals are“: be able to provide for my parents in their old age. Travel to Scotland and live there for a year. Or it could be “Retire when I’m 60.”
4. Make your goals part of your everyday life. Let’s say one of your goals, a trip to Ireland Have a couple of books about Ireland laying around the house, on your coffee table and nightstand. Listen to music from Ireland on your MP3. Watch television shows or read news events for about Ireland.
• Make a story board and have other reminders related to meeting your life goals throughout your home. Your life goals should be part of your everyday life so that even when times get bumpy, you’ll be able to keep your eyes on the target or prize.
5. Talk positively to yourself. Monitor your self-talk and make sure it is positive. When you are positive you’re be more likely to keep working toward your goals in life.
“Tough times don’t last, tough people do.” – Robert Schuller
• Think of other times you have been challenged “I can get through this phase just like I did before,” “As long as I keep moving forward, things will be okay,” and “Life has in store many more wonderful adventures for me.”
6. Consider your past. Even though you may be struggling, think about what you accomplished just this year, week or today to achieve your goals. Maybe you made a couple of phone calls, explored the internet to gather information, or drew up a new budget to ensure you’re on target for saving for your life goals.
• The fact is you did something. And remembering that will strengthen you in your efforts to achieve your goals. You can excel in times of great challenge. You learn from the tough times.
Keep working toward your goals even though life throws a few obstacles at you. Know what you’re “WHY” is and stay focused. Make your goals a part of your daily routine and use positive self-talk. Acknowledge what you’ve done to keep moving forward.
Apply these strategies to help you consistently work to meet your life goals. If you do, you’ll accomplish whatever you want, no matter what.
Got some challenges? Drop me a line.
Chat soon
Percy