So what can we do to ensure we maintain the focus we need to achieve our goals? Here are some tips that will help us stay focused.
Write goals down. Put your goals, reasons, objectives and beliefs in writing. When they are in writing, it makes them more real and they can be reviewed and used as a constant source of encouragement. Eventually, your goals will become branded in your mind.
Plan your action. Build your plan for reaching your goal. Your plan becomes your roadmap and helps you determine the best course to follow.
Minimise distractions. Get rid of as much temptation as possible that deviates from your focus on your goal. If your goal is to lose weight, throw away all takeaway and delivery food menus that are delivered through your letterbox. If your goal is to save money and reduce money spent on non-necessities, unsubscribe from any online shopping, gaming, promotional newsletters, email or text alerts. If, for example, your goal is to exercise more and you have identified watching TV as a distraction, don’t turn on the TV until you have achieved the tasks relating to your goal. Use every method you can think of to remove distractions from your situation and it will certainly help your focus.
Use the power of visualisation. To have something to focus on, we must have a strong visual picture of our target, so we can maintain focus on the end result. The more you bring what it is you wish to obtain to the forefront of your mind, the more focus you can give to it.
Measure progress. You can’t control your progress unless you can analyse your progress. Create a system and timetable to measure your progress. Record your daily progress. This can tell you if you are on track or if you need to make adjustments to your plan or activities. You need to measure your progress on a regular basis, as it gives you some control.
Prioritise goals. Focus on a few goals at one time. Try not to overburden yourself, as it will limit your chance of achieving your goal and demotivate you. Concentrate on the important ones first, achieve them and then you can look at addressing the other goals.
Work goals into daily plan. Do something towards achieving your goals every day. The best way to achieve your goals and maintain your focus is to do something that will make it happen each and every day. Even if it’s only 15 minutes each day, it is better than not doing any goal-related activity at all. Give your goal daily attention and you’ll remain more focused and at a better chance of achieving your goal and live a better life
Use power of positive affirmations. Keep telling yourself in the present tense and in a positive statement of what you want to achieve. When someone’s goal is to climb a mountain, their affirmation will detail being at the top of the mountain, not on getting from the bottom to the top. Positive affirmation can help you maintain focus and help you believe in yourself and your ability to obtain your goal.
Celebrate your milestones. Mark your successes and acknowledge your progress towards your desired goal. Set milestones, and as you achieve them reward yourself. This will motivate you and make you see your milestone in a very positive way.
Also remember that there is no quick fix to achieving your goals. It requires your motivation, effort, research and time. However, our goals are far more attainable when we stay focused on them and as such you live a better life.
