As humans, we’re hardwired to want things now. Instant gratification is widespread, especially with everyone being connected by technology 24 hours/day. This want-it-now attitude is partially responsible for 92% of people giving up on their goals. According to this Inc.com article, only 8% of people actually achieve what they set out to accomplish. So, how can you make sure you’re in that 8%?
Set very specific goals that are challenging yet achievable. If your mission is too easy, you may lose interest in it before you reach the end. The same result can occur if the goal is ambiguous and you don’t really know where the end is. By gaining clarity on exactly what you’re trying to achieve and why you’re trying to achieve it, you will drastically increase your chances of success.
Make sure the objective resonates with you. If you’re working towards a target that someone else set for you or that you think you should go for, your probability of reaching said target is very low. The 8% of goal-setters who succeed are truly passionate about what they’re doing and they don’t stop until they get it. They constantly check-in with themselves to see if what they’re going through is worth the result, they accept feedback regularly, and they have an accountability system in place to help them reach the end.
Be patient and believe in your plan. The biggest challenge people may face is not seeing the results they’re looking for fast enough. This can lead to lack of motivation due to frustration or fear that you’re on the wrong path. It’s important to have a realistic time frame of when you should reach your goal. Trying to do way too much all at once can get confusing and burn you out. Make sure that all of your small or daily objectives are aligned with your bigger-picture intention. Remember, a dollar is made up of 20 nickels. If you get a nickel every week, you will eventually end up with a dollar. Keep at it and you will achieve your intention.
Reach out to me if you’re wondering if your short-term goals are aligned with your long-term ambitions or if you have any other questions or comments on this subject.