Life is hard. Life is also constantly changing. We can be on top of the world one day and feel buried below the dirt the next. On top of that, we are rarely where we want to be in life. Some people believe this is just how life is and are miserable, but others have figured out the secret to how to get from where we are to where we should be. That secret is shared here:
“I am learning every day to allow the space between where I want to be and where I am to inspire me and not terrify me.”
So, what does this secret mean in practical terms? We all have areas of life in which we are not where we want to be. Sometimes the gap is huge; sometimes, there is just one big obstacle in the way. Regardless, we see that gap or challenge and allow fear to enter our minds. The trick to being able to close that gap is to let the space or gap inspire instead of terrify you. It is human nature to give up when an obstacle is reached, but if we can change that mindset, great things can happen. There are a few straightforward steps you can take to help yourself along the way.
- Understand the Goal
If you are not where you want to be, but do know what the goal is, then write it down. Just living life for the journey without trying to reach a goal will leave you wondering in circles. Start with the goal.
- Create a Plan
You know your goal, and you know where you are at the moment. Take time to write out the major steps that are needed to get from point A to point B. These should be broad steps at least at first.
- Break It Down
Look at each major step and break it down into smaller, measurable steps. These smaller steps will become smaller goals.
- SMART Goals
As the bigger steps are broken down into smaller steps, create SMART goals. SMART goals are specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-Bound.
- Get Started
Start making progress on your goals. With each victory, big or small, find a way to celebrate and know you are moving closer to where you want to be.
Examples:
It can be tough to put this into action, so we will share an example. Let’s say you are currently overweight and want to get in better shape. Your plan may begin with the words “Overweight/Weak” and end with “In Shape/Healthy Weight.” Getting from one point to another will involve exercise, joining a gym, eating healthy, and practicing control. Next, you want to set SMART goals. One potential SMART goal for this journey may be “Lose two pounds in one week by exercising for 5 minutes a day and eating one healthy meal a day.” This is a realistic goal that is time-bound, relevant to the goal, measurable by the scale, and achievable.
There is no need to fear the space between where we are and where we want to be if we can break it down and track progress over time. Start tackling your space today.