When we set a new goal in life, we are usually filled with optimism, have a crystal clear vision on what we want and are 100% committed to going after it.
But often, over time, and with all the distractions present in our day to day life, we can fall off track and lose that focus we started with. There are lots of things that can distract us, social media, family commitments, television, work, the list is endless. As the distractions add up, the feeling of determination and clarity we initially had can slip away, and with it, the dream of achieving what we want.
However it happens, it is extremely common for our focus and determination to dip now and then when we are on the journey to achieving something we have never done before.
A lot of this has to do with the fact that when we set our sights on achieving something we have new, there is a lack of evidence in our mind that we can achieve it.
Your brain may say to you that because you have never done this particular thing before, that it is a foolish idea to try. You may even tell yourself that you aren’t capable. Self-talk like this can generate a sense of self-doubt which ultimately leads to a decrease in focus. It is the ultimate in self-sabotage.
So how can we get back on track towards our goals when we lose focus?
1. Acknowledge Your Mistakes
You are human, you are allowed to make a mistake. Acknowledging and taking responsibility for your choices is the first step to making a change in the right direction.
2. Reevaluate Your Goal
If you find that you are falling off track, perhaps you may need to reevaluate your goal. Some questions to ask yourself may be;
Do I actually want this?
What else do I need to learn to get to where I want to be?
Are the steps I have laid out to help me get there practical and achievable?
3. Practice Self Compassion
It is easy to beat ourselves up when we fall off track or make a choice that is not in alignment with what we really want. The more productive option is to love yourself through your inner challenges. Give yourself a break! You are learning, growing and trying something you have never done before.
4. Get Inspired
Look to others for inspiration. Although you may have never achieved the goal you have chosen, there is definitely someone else in the world who has done it. Use these people as inspiration! Read books, blogs, listen to podcasts, go to seminars, whatever it is that helps to remind you that what you want to achieve is possible.
5. Take Action to Get Back on Track
Once you regain clarity on what you want to achieve, get back to it. Momentum is a powerful driver for creativity. Take one action today towards any goal you have no matter how small. Do it now! One small movement in the direction of your goals can incite an avalanche of progress.
What techniques do you use to get yourself back on track? Share them in the comments below!