Goal setting is the real secret to success in any area of life. But while setting a goal may seem simple, achieving it is usually a different matter altogether.
Why is that?
Because you'll never achieve your goals unless you: (1) know exactly what you want, (2) aren't passionate about your goal, and (3) don't have a solid, realistic plan of action. This is what marks the difference between vague dreams and wishes – and truly achievable goals!
Many obstacles and challenges will fly right in your face as you go for the goal. Here are 5 time-tested methods to help you achieve the success you deserve.
1. Know exactly what your goal is
Your first task is to figure out exactly what your goal is. What will achieving this goal look like? Be as specific as possible about exactly what you want the result to be. Your success will be a measure of your clarity - because an achievable goal plan cannot be built around a nebulous "dream".
If your goal is to create a more successful business, what will that look like? Are you thinking of simply hiring someone else to give you more free time? Are you looking for a very specific monthly profit? Or is your goal best expressed through a certain lifestyle?
Regardless of what you want, the best way to achieve it is to first clarify exactly what you want in as much detail as possible. This can be hard work. But without a clear mental picture, you will never focus on achieving your goal.
2. Be willing to pay the "entry fee"
Success requires dedicated planning and effort. In a way, it's like building a house. In the beginning, all you have is a rough concept. Then you create a complete set of plans - and you're instantly closer to success. The same goes for creating a better lifestyle or a more successful business.
But there is always an *entry fee* to be paid for success.
Entry fee?
Achieving more success in your business can mean less leisure time. Writing your book may require less TV. Being closer to your children may require adjusting your work or social activities.
It's a "full glass" offer. If your life (your time) is already fully charged, there is no room for anything new. The entry fee takes time away from creating something new.
3. Focus on your goal every day
I'm sure you probably want to reach your goal as quickly as possible. This is why clear mental focus is so important.
Consistent daily focus is necessary to “burn in” the new neural pathways you need to create your new goal. Without daily focus, old mental habits that have held you back from your goal will continue to take over.
This happens automatically – because these old habits are replaying deep in your subconscious 24/7. The only way to override the subconscious messages against success is to consciously focus on what you DO - and build new neural networks!
Therefore, success is a daily occurrence.
Recommit to your goal every day. Don't let your goal fade into the background of the daily tasks and distractions that try to take over. Life will try to get in your way. Just get in and stay on the course every day. Focus on your goal and success!
4. Get excited
One of the most powerful tools in your "success toolbox" is a true passion for your goal.
Why passion?
Because an intense passionate desire for your goal will help you burn those new neural pathways even faster. Many, many scientific studies have shown that intense emotion (passion) is a key tool for success.
PLUS (and this is a really *big* plus), intense passion will also help you quickly suppress any inappropriate old “failure messages” stored in your subconscious.
5. Take consistent action:
In many ways, taking action can be the most difficult step. Successfully achieving a goal is built by taking one small action after another.
The word is ACTION!
If you commit to taking at least one small action every day, your actions will add up and make an impact. So avoid sitting around waiting for that big second when everything magically "just happens."
You CAN create what you want in life. The secret is to identify exactly what you want and then pursue it passionately. But remember – in the end, only action counts! You can't just dream about it! You have to do it!
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