It’s almost that time of year again - the NEW YEAR. We generally start talking about goal setting around October because that’s when the new planners are released, but really, you should be planning all year on what you want to do for the following year. (I mean, you don’t have to, but seriously successful people do this all the time).
Now, it’s one thing to plan basic goals (i.e. Let’s drink more water), which are habits, or projects (i.e. cleaning the basement), and another thing for those Big Dreams. I’m thinking about things like taking a once-in-a-lifetime trip, or being debt free. Perhaps you’ve always wanted to do a marathon, or go sky-diving. Whatever it is, it might seem scary. It’s not something you’re used to doing and it might involve calculated risks, or lots of pre-planning, or saving up your money.
A long time ago, one goal that was actually really simple, but seemed very scary to me at the time was going for dinner or to a movie alone. I had always associated those things with going with someone special, like on a date or a special family outing. When I first had breakfast alone at Smitty’s, I was so nervous. I was afraid other people were judging me for not having someone to accompany me. However, I found it very freeing. It made me feel like I was complete all on my own and I didn’t necessarily have to have someone with me all the time to keep me company or to fulfill me.
When things are new, they can seem really scary. It doesn’t even matter what it is. It can be adjusting to a new job, or going to a job interview. Maybe you want to challenge yourself and speak in public, so you sign up for a class on how to speak publicly. Maybe you want to go back to school, so you decide to attend a few classes and it’s hard because everyone seems so much younger than you.
You have to remember, that most things in life are challenges. When you overcome them, it might be an awesome feeling and give you the motivation to attempt bigger and greater things. Just remember that when you fail (and you will fail - it’s inevitable; it’s not a failure, it’s a learning opportunity). You can make the decision to carry on and keep trying, or let it go.
It’s when you actively seek out new opportunities and challenges (aka. setting goals for yourself) that you’re truly taking charge of your life. All experiences in your life create learning opportunities and potential open doors. It’s up to you to recognize them for what they are, and make the first step.
Sandra
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