Figmentations

Quite often, the common advice about goal-setting revolves around writing specific, measureable, actionable, realistic, time-based (SMART) goals.

Yet, I’ve found that just because you pick a goal and write it down on paper along with some appropriate milestones below it, that doesn’t guarantee that those goals, similar to those New Year’s resolutions, won’t soon quickly be forgotten, too.

And, sure, goals are more likely to be pursued if this becomes more than just a logical intellectual exercise, but instead takes on a more meaningful, emotional connection, with motivation and commitment involved. 

And, if you can get there, you’ll find that sticking with a plan is much easier if you have a compelling purpose behind it than if it feels like just another chore being added to the list of things-to-do-before-I-can-have-fun-or-relax-for-the-day.

Though, still enjoy the process of setting your goals by following all that typical goal-setting advice and fanfare.  But then, once those goals are set, try to create routines that you can follow without over-thinking or leaving room for backing out.

Here’s what I do:  Take this month for example, my goals, without going into all the specifics, are writing daily and exercising regularly.  So, I created routines for those.  Each day after work, I go directly to the gym, without thinking about it.  Then, I go home and eat dinner.  After dinner, I write one blog post, no matter how long or short, before going to bed.  In the morning, after packing my gym bag, I give a few minutes thought to what I could write about in the evening if nothing comes up during the day.  And, those are my routines that keep me on track.

Those habits then become something that I’ve planned for, reminded myself about, and that I’m so much less likely to find excuses for. 

So, goal setting and commitment play a role, but so do routines and setting yourself up to succeed.  

Do you have routines that help keep you on track?
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For a list of all posts in this series go to: Finding Purpose (actual links will be posted as each post becomes live.)