When we set out to transform our lives, we often start with great enthusiasm, but over time it dissipates. We then beat ourselves up and allow that negative thinking to sabotage our progress. One of the reasons is that we focus too much on the end goal and not enough on what we are doing each day.
“What is not started today is never finished tomorrow.”
– Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
It is what we do each day that will make the difference and help us achieve the desired transformation. Instead of focussing on what we are not doing, switch things around and focus on what you are doing.
According to research monitoring goal progress is an effective self-regulation strategy and are likely to promote behaviour change (Harkin et al., 2016). Focussing on our wins and strengths goes a long way to keeping us motivated and in the game.
Own your wins
Another highly successful strategy is to ‘own’ your wins for past changes you have made to your life. “Owning’ your past successes helps to develop a sense of competence and motivation. Even if the past wins are not related to your current goal, all of us have succeeded at something. Be proud of your accomplishments (Inspiration taken from https://pro.positivepsychology.com/tools/awareness-of-progress-and-accomplishments/, 2021).
So come on, don’t be shy! What have you done well in the past, and how can that success help you with your current transformation? You need to focus on your strengths and relive the emotions you felt when you were successful.
“Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.”
– Arthur Ashe
All too often, we are so focused on the results that we ignore the small steps we took each day that helped get us there. It might be something as simple as getting up fifteen minutes earlier or packing your gym bag the night before so that you do not forget something.
Never underestimate how powerful it is to keep checking on your progress and make the minor adjustments that will carry you on to great things. Oh, and lastly, celebrate the wins and the victories. Remember, it is the awareness of progress that matters.
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