Is there something you've been talking about, thinking about or even dreaming about for what seems like forever, yet you never seem to actually do it?!
Not to worry -- I promise there's nothing wrong with you. I've been there and hear it all the time so you're definitely not alone.
However, there's absolutely no reason for you to stay stuck. It's time to stop talking and start doing. It may be easier than you think.
So here's a step-by-step guide to help you finally make "it" happen.
1. Passion
Are you fixated on a goal but not really sure why you made it in the first place? Ask yourself, "Is this goal actually something I'm really passionate about or is it an old dream I need to let go of?" It can actually be really freeing to let go of a goal when you realize it isn't something that you want anymore. If that's the case, be brave and give yourself permission to release it today. (I promise, something even better will form in its place.) On the other hand, if you're honest with your desires and get an "all systems go," then great, move onto #2.
2. Possibility
Is this goal actually a real possibility? For example, if you really want to be a professional basketball player, yet you're 60-years-old and 5'0'' tall, maybe you need to bring yourself back to reality. Or if you feel destined to be an actor yet you aren't willing to move to L.A., New York or another large city where there are opportunities for you, then you may need to rethink things. I will never say never to you, but please be honest about your limitations. You absolutely don't need to know exactly how to make "it" happen step-by-step yet, but just be truthful about whether it's actually feasible. If it is, move forward to #3. (By the way, you can pause here, regroup and then move onto #3 when you're ready.)
3. People
Are there people in your life who are holding you back from making this happen? Be honest with yourself regarding the influence of others on your mindset, confidence and actions. I'm not saying de-friend everyone on Facebook or cut all ties, but if you need to, avoid the people who may cause you to slip back into lazy mode or rain on your parade. And if you do have to be around those people, at least make yourself more aware of their effect on you and put your guard up. Find a community of people who share your mission, support you and have a similar mindset. After all, we all need cheerleaders in our corners. Now move onto #4.
4. Positive Trigger
This is the most vital point and the part that involves the shift. I once heard someone who was trying to lose weight say that the most important thing he did to make that happen was to put on his running shoes in the morning. It wasn't the dieting or the exercising, but it was all about the shoes. For him, once he had on them on and laced up, he knew he would go to the gym. I like to call this a positive trigger. So take some time to think about what triggers you to act. Is it a Post-It on the fridge reminding you to choose something healthy to eat? Is it an email you got from a friend encouraging you to live your dreams or is it a manageable to-do list that you look at every morning that keeps you organized and on track? And by the way, this is the bit where you put last week's article Nothing Will Change Unless I Do into action. Now onto #5!
5. Power
Once you're moving towards your goal, you'll feel super powerful. I encourage you to hold onto that feeling and really recognize it as a sign of your success. You need to start celebrating your achievements both big and small. Use that feeling of power to spur you on in maintaining your motivation and maybe even achieving the next goal. I know you have it in you, so come on, no more excuses!
And as always, if you need a little help along the way, that's what I'm here for! Use me! I'm just sitting here waiting for you to get in touch at www.iheartmylife.com.