I don’t want you to create goals just for the sake of creating goals. You’re a busy mom - what is the purpose of wasting your time like that?
If you feel unsure about where to start with setting goals, that’s okay.
Start with a vision board to help you focus your thoughts before delving into the specific goals and a plan.
Finding the intention behind goals is just as important as the process of setting and writing your goals.
Your goals need to be aligned with a vision for your future in order for the goals to really stick.
Start with the vision of who you want to be and then plan how to get there.
Once you have an idea of your vision and are starting to think about your goals, follow these 4 steps to creating goals that are going to stick.
Create goals that are specific and realistic.
Let’s say “being healthy” is a goal for you. How can you make that goal really specific? What does it mean for you to “be healthy”?
You may want to exercise more regularly or eat healthier foods. You may want to try to eat less meat, eat more vegetables or reduce the number of sweets you eat.
As you create the goals, make sure they are realistic for you as well. If you get winded walking up stairs, it’s more realistic to create a goal to run a 5K than a marathon. The goal here is to pick goals that are specific and realistic for you.
Examples could include:
*Eat green veggies 3 x/week.
*Walk outside for 30 minutes on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.
*Run a 5K.
Note: Each of your goals will likely have smaller steps underneath each of them. This is good - you want to get as specific as possible for each goal!
Take baby steps toward your vision.
Many people get frustrated when they set goals and work at them for a few days or weeks, with no results. Others struggle when there are set-backs, which can lead them to give up.
If you feel this happening, remind yourself of your vision and remember it takes baby steps to achieve the vision.
Don’t let the largeness of your vision overwhelm you. It is totally possible to achieve a large goal - you CAN DO THIS.
Think about all the goals you accomplish for your family every day! You got this, Mama.
Accountability
Having others hold you accountable will help you stick to your goals. Tell other people you trust about your goals. Ask them to check in with you about your goals frequently.
You can also work with a coach or other professionals to help support you in achieving your goals. There are also lots of apps that encourage connection to a community that may help you with staying accountable to your goals!
Reward Yourself
Goal attainment can be really hard work! Set incentives along the path to your vision so you can reward yourself for accomplishments along the way.
Connect rewards to goals throughout your journey. For example, you could reward yourself every 6 weeks. Or you can reward yourself once you achieve certain “baby step” goals along the way.
Examples of incentives could be treating yourself to a pedicure, indulging in a favorite dessert, going for a day trip, or planning a special hike and picnic with your family.
Give yourself time to unwind and really enjoy the moment when you reach a reward.
And, of course, the ultimate reward will be when you begin to see the transformation in yourself as you live a life that is meaningful and intentional.
Good luck! The world needs you to live your dreams.
xo, Jessica
P.S. Download your FREE Create a Vision and Goals worksheet to help you with the process of creating a vision, setting goals and preparing for barriers along the way.
Join the Mama Be Community! For further guidance or support, visit www.drjessicalarson.com and download FREE resources to help you in your journey.
