How to get started with setting goals

Many of us have big dreams and plans for the future, problem is that we get so caught up in our web of thoughts, we aren’t sure where to start. When it comes to goals, especially with big goals in mind, that first step always seems to be the hardest to plan.

So how can we focus on finding our start?

First off, let’s separate your goals from your bucket list. Things you would like to do, or would be nice to get done, are desires rather than goals. When you look at the big picture, where do you see your ideal self? Do you live in the country or the city? What kind of job do you have? How do you dress? How do you feel? These are your goals.

When getting that image in mind, be specific as possible as to what you want. Once you have a clear picture of your ideal future, it’s time to get to work.

Bridging the gap

Now that you have clarity on what your ideal lifestyle looks like, let’s talk about setting goals to get there. Look at how many areas in the present moment align with what you actually want. Are you living up to your values? Do you have the dream car, house or spouse? How does your present life make you feel? Once we start examining our daily quality of life, we can decide where change needs to be made.

Let’s look at your current job. What is it that keeps you there and why aren’t you moving towards having the job you desire. Maybe it’s that you lack the proper education, or maybe it’s the fear of leaving your comfort zone of a job that you’ve had for years.

How many times are you saying yes, therefore loading on the obligations that really aren’t necessary? Learning to say no, is a big part of focusing on your needs. Setting goals will help minimize obstacles and bring you to your future potential. Bridging that gap from where you are now, to where you see yourself in five years from today, takes planning and consistency.

Take small steps

You know what you want, now to figure out how to get there. Once you look at the obstacles, you can decide the best way to overcome them. Put all your thoughts and plans onto paper. Then choose the three biggest obstacles and decide which one to work on first.

Where can you find the skills necessary to bridge the gap? Books, podcasts, enrolling in a course? Or is it a matter of health? Can you start by avoiding sugar and walking nightly? Perhaps you know someone who is already in the role you look to achieve, a conversation with them would certainly clarify some of the work needed to get there.

Whatever the step is, know that it’s ok to start small. Setting goals is a slow and consistent effort, that takes practice and discipline. Do you want to read that self-help book? Start with a page or two. It's the habit of taking action, that creates momentum. Change takes time and that’s ok, simply reading a post such as this shows me you are ready.

Here are a few morning habits to jumpstart your day

Make your bed. A small act of discipline that builds the habit of accomplishment.

Drink your water. Nothing is better for your body than H2O!

Journal 5 to 10 minutes. Getting thoughts onto paper helps organize and set the day plan.

10 minute workout. Stretching, walking or something intense, it all adds up and makes a difference!

Healthy breakfast. Plan ahead, if no time for a proper breakfast, make a healthy to go option for your morning.

Having a good morning routine in place, will help you stay focused on the set goals for the day. Your habits help you to work toward your big goals. Nothing great is made overnight. It takes consistency, focus and effort. Work today, so the future you will thank you!