3 small steps to move you in the right direction

When you think about a goal you want to accomplish, do you tend to jump ten steps ahead? Let’s say you want to be healthier, and as you start to think about what’s involved, your thoughts start to snowball: I need to work out every day. Oh wait, I need new running shoes. I should probably get a personal trainer while I’m at it. That means I’ll have to wake up before work. Can I get up that early?

You see what’s happening here? When the list gets too long, it becomes overwhelming very quickly; and when you’re overwhelmed, it’s more likely you will shut down and nothing will get done. Your intentions may be good, but it’s this kind of thinking that will keep you stuck in the same place.

Here are 3 steps to stay motivated and increase your chances of success:

1. Let go of judgment and self-criticism.

Many people judge themselves when they feel like they haven’t accomplished enough in a single day. The first step to getting and staying motivated is practicing self-acceptance and self-compassion. This means being patient with yourself and accepting your flaws.

2. Do one thing every day to move forward, and feel good about it.

Set an achievable goal, something you can commit to and keep. When you take small steps that move you in the right direction, you will feel good. Create a plan to meet your goals in a consistent way that gains momentum over time. When you start checking the boxes and seeing progress, staying motivated becomes easier.

3. Enjoy the journey and focus on the progress, not the end goal.

If you ever start to doubt yourself along the way, remember how far you have come. This mentality will make you feel like you’re winning. Staying optimistic and maintaining a positive mindset is crucial to staying motivated.

Remember, you are capable of accomplishing great things. When you fall, you need to get up and keep going. It’s in our failures, not our successes, that we learn the most about ourselves. You are a strong and powerful person, and you can deal with any challenge that comes your way. Believe that you can do anything because you can.

Rose Caiola
Inspired. Rewired.