Break your long-term goals into small steps…
Your long-term goals can be hard to pin down sometimes. When goals are large, finding a way to get started and get some traction can be difficult.
Here’s a question that recently came to me at paula@thetimefinder.com.
Please feel invited to send your own questions. I answer as many as I can here on the blog.
So, here’s what Susan from Doylestown, PA wrote recently:
A question from a reader…
Hi Paula –
I understand about being aware, flexible, and specific when I develop goals. My problem is an inability to figure out where or how to start working on bigger goals.
I know where I want to go, but I don’t know how to get there.
I’m stuck, Paula, can you help?
Susan
Here’s my answer:
Dear Susan,
Don’t worry, you’re almost there. Identifying your long-term goal is a vital step. This gives you a starting place.
The next biggest challenge when working on your long-term goal is getting started. When you have a big goal, sometimes it’s hard to find your way ‘in.’ So, let’s break this down into steps:
- First brainstorm all the tasks involved in getting to your long-term goal. Don’t censor yourself — just jot everything down on a list.
- Next, categorize the tasks. For example, if you want to build a house, you will put all the site development tasks into one category, and all the activities involved in obtaining permits in another. If there are also tools and materials involved in your long-range goal, remember to separate your task list from your materials list.
- After you have identified everything that goes into each specific category, prioritize your lists. Adjust as needed.
Finally — and this is very important — break down each activity you’ve identified into the smallest pieces possible. That way, the tasks will be doable, and you will experience immediate success. This will help get you started and keep you going. It can be daunting to work on large tasks without building in places where you can feel a sense of accomplishment.
Good luck on your endeavor. I’m sure you’ll get there.
Warmest regards,
Paula
You and your long-term goals…
So, how do you approach your biggest goals?
What kind of planning do you do and how do you give yourself the experience of success?
Well, here’s more help: Overwhelmed? Discouraged? Stuck? Well, here’s something that will help you loosen those logjams and start moving again. “Why Can’t I Ever Get Anything Done?” How to Transform Your Life Using These 101 Time Tips is a compilation of 101 of my most popular time tips in expanded form, offering practical, heart-based wisdom in right-sized bites for easy digestion.
It includes time-tested tips and action steps separated into 11 common categories to help you find just what you need in the moment you need it. You know, transforming your life is all about transforming your time. It’s within your reach, and these 101 Time Tips give you 101 stepping stones to your time success. And I’ve got a very special bonus for you, too. Why Can’t I Find My Direction?” 17 Journaling Prompts to Create Your Ideal Life is a workbook designed to support you in making the changes you most desire. There’s so much for you here, and you can learn about it by clicking the link below:
Speak Your Mind