U.K.-born Hazel Morley is a certified international trainer and coach, now based in Squamish. In this new column, she will share proven, practical tips on managing your "neck-top computer" (i.e. your mindset) to enable you to achieve even more business success and personal fulfilment. The column will run the first week of every month in The Chief.
Research shows that most of us will, by the middle of January, have given up on or failed to stay on track with our New Year's resolutions. Can you identify with that?
Recently I heard a radio broadcaster say, "The difference between try and triumph is just a little 'umph.'"
So, is that the problem... do we need to make more effort? Or is it the way we apply that effort that makes the difference?
I think it's often a combination of both. Here are some tips to keep you on track to creating more of the life you want.
Decide what you want - Get really clear about what you want to have, or be, or do. Consider these criteria as you think about that:
Make your goal stretching.
You don't need to be certain right now about how you would make this a reality, or have the resources to achieve it, today.
Your goal needs to be achievable for you (no point setting yourself up for failure).
Get inspired to take action - Here's a practical and proven framework that can help you triumph and make it as effortless as possible:
Think positive and personal -Think about what you want, not what you don't want. Use "I" statements, even for goals that involve others. Be clear about what you are going to do. Believe and trust in yourself - the life you want depends on it.
Record in the present tense -Research shows you are more likely to achieve your goal if you write it down - and review it, often. Writing using your non-preferred hand helps you be fully present as you do this. State the goal as if it's happening now, as if you already have what you want, or are in the process of getting it.
Put a date on your goal -Your brain doesn't know when three months' time is; it needs a more specific target for direction. As you'll be reviewing your goal regularly, you can change it if necessary.
Visualize - Create a rich, sensory picture in your mind of yourself having, being, doing whatever it is you want. Connect with, and appreciate, the feelings and outcomes associated with that achievement.
Use affirmations -Positive thoughts will direct you toward what you want. Affirmations are simply positive statements that help to create self-belief, maintain your confidence to make this happen and release any negative thoughts of this being impossible, or you being undeserving.
Final thoughts -Are you feeling "comfortably uncomfortable" with your life? Do you settle for less than you want or deserve? Do you get sidetracked easily? The good news is, it doesn't have to be this way. Take control. Set some goals today, direct your thoughts toward what you want and notice what shows up.
Make it a great year!
Hazel Morley is principal of Think Smart: Training and Coaching with Change in Mind. Her goal is to help others achieve more sizzle and less fizzle in their work and other areas of their life. She can be contacted at [email protected]
