Eyes on the Prize

Accomplishing a goal can be as much about how you get there as it is about getting there. Sometimes when going for a hard-to-reach goal, it can feel like it’s something you’ll never achieve.

Creating a reward system can help you stay on track. Treat yourself with 30 minutes of relaxing time, a five minute break during the day or go see that movie you were hoping to catch.

Start by planning the steps to get to your goal. With each step, you should get a reward. Make sure that the steps are challenging enough so that the reward feels earned. Once you get to your goal, you will really feel like you achieved something for yourself.

Tips for reaching your goals

If you’re trying to achieve a life goal or change your life, the following tips can help you:

Get ready—you’re more likely to achieve your goal if you first make up your mind that you are ready for change.
Understand your motivation—staying motivated and understanding why you want change will make it easier to achieve.
Be confident—believing that you can achieve your goal will help you stay motivated along the way.
Make it your mission—write a mission statement to help you reach your goal. Write down what you hope to accomplish, why you want to change, when you want to make the change and what you’ll do to make it happen.
Start small—take small steps, so you don’t feel overwhelmed with the overall goal.
Keep it personal—use personal strategies to help you with the steps along the way. For example, set rules for yourself. If you want to eat healthier at a party, make a mental list of the foods you will allow yourself to eat that night.
Follow the SMART goal-setting method—set a specific goal, measure your progress, achieve steps, be realistic and set a timeframe to get to your goal.
Don't give up—making changes may be difficult, so don't be too hard on yourself, and don't give up.
Realize you're not alone—talk to a wellness coach, your doctor, a trusted friend or relative to help you keep stay on track.
Remember and reward—remember your mission statement, and give yourself a reward when you make steps to achieve your goal.