Step by Step …Reach Your Goals

The journey of a thousand miles begins with the first step. This well-known quote implies action. I've often discovered that the most difficult part of accomplishing my goals is taking that first step. What is it that is so intimidating about embarking on a new journey?

We are creatures of comfort. Putting aside the known, and moving on to new territory takes a bit of courage and discomfort. The known and usual is like a rocking chair that is hard to resist, but there comes a time to get up and set out to discover unconquered territory.

History is full of heroes who discovered new worlds and tamed wild lands. No, none of them did it from a rocking chair perched on the front porch. Each and every one left behind their comforts and dared to explore a world of unknown dangers.

Christopher Columbus defied the realm of the unknown. He headed out onto an ocean that many believed was flat. While the fearful, rocking chair grannies sat home safe and secure, Columbus proved that the world was round. He brought home treasures. He discovered exotic lands, and met new peoples. His heroism has endured generations.

Now, I'm not mocking those who sat back waiting for him to disappear from the earth. Not everyone is going to conquer and discover. My question is what are you going to do? Will you set out for a territory that you've longed to conquer, or will you find complacency in being what you've always been?

Have you tried to conquer and failed? Maybe it's time to try some new techniques. If you do what you've always done, you'll get the same results you've always got in the past. Let's look at some sure-fire ways to get started.

Pinpoint a goal. Define it – no abstracts here. Decide exactly what you want to do, and when you want to have it accomplished. You know what's important to you. Your first goal doesn't have to be the biggest. Sometimes small accomplishments will give you the courage to attempt bigger ones. The key is to choose one that matters, and that will inspire you to achieve more in the future.

Focus on your current goal. Keep it where you will constantly be aware of it. Put pictures on the refrigerator, mark your calendar, go to a support group or talk about it with your friends. Whatever it takes, keep your goal in sight. Don't allow it to fade away.

Plan for success. Do you have a reward that will motivate you to complete your journey? Prepare to enjoy the fruits of your labor. It could be a long dreamed for vacation, a new dress, or a night on the town. Plan to celebrate your success!

Enjoy! The feeling of exhilaration that comes from accomplishing your dreams has no competition. I well remember the rush I felt when I finished my very first ebook. I knew I had done well! Time, spent energy, and frustration seemed to roll away when I saved that last file. I was done! I had completed the task, and felt more than ready to take on a new one.

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