So you have a dream of running a marathon or maybe achieving something else in your life. But you don’t know where to start, or you’re thinking that it’s just another one of those many Big Goals on your list to achieve? That it might not be possible? You will be surprised at how we can adjust ourselves to something we really want in life.
Goal
Okay, the first thing is that you need to get your bum off the couch. You need to do some research. Found out where and when is the marathon held. I would say you also need to imagine it first. What you would look like in running shoes; wearing those colourful Nikes that you love so much; Matching pants and t-shirt. Feel confidence flowing through you, the excitement about finishing this race. Feel proud of yourself for achieving this goal you have always dreamed of.
Measurement
We are all different. We all have our own approaches and thought processes to challenges. Because of that, you have to really dig in and figure out not only what works, but what works for you as a unique human being. What works for one person might not work for the next person.
It always helps to ask yourself a good positive question. For example, you would want to ask why you want to achieve this goal? What needs to happen for you to achieve this goal? How do you want to feel once you’ve achieved this goal? Can you achieve this goal? How do you go about it?
Here’s the cool thing about regular measurement – if you measure, let’s say every 10 days, that means that every 10 days you can ask yourself:
Is it working or not?
Is it moving me closer or further away from my goal?
What do I need to adjust in what I am doing to help me get closer to my goal?”
Can you see by asking yourself these questions, you are triggering more thoughts on how to achieve your goal. I believe in taking baby steps towards achieving goals. Breaking goals down into smaller achievable little goals. In doing so, you make it enjoyable for yourself to make this goal work for you. Think about when do you want to start with your first step and by what date do you want to achieve this goal? It is important to do this because you will start setting your mind in the right direction. Saying this needs to be achieved by that specific date will also motivate you into action.
Go to the track where the marathon will take place or the new car you want to buy yourself. Get the feel of it. Can you see yourself running the marathon or buying that car? Now put a plan together. For example, join a gym. Get someone to join you on this journey so you can encourage each other. Not just that, but so you can keep each other accountable. I believe we can’t do it alone. You need someone to help you. A person that will cheer you on when you want to give up. It is important to connect with people. Yes, each one’s values are different it doesn’t mean they will always agree with you but that is also okay.
Cycles
You will need to get yourself into a routine by trying to live a balanced life to make this goal achievable. Not just what you are preparing yourself physically for but also preparing spiritually. There will be things that you need to give up and there will be things you will add to your new lifestyle. For some, it is very exciting, but also very hard to say good buy too. But believe me, it is all worth it. You will look back and ask yourself was it all worth it? With a heart that will be overflowing with joy; your answer will be YES!!!
Reward
I always say that if you have achieved your goal, you need to reward yourself. Yes, a REWARD. Know that is a wonderful thing to give yourself to motivate yourself.