Realistic Goals

Every year, society continues to recycle New Year's resolutions, although we rarely succeed in maintaining or sustaining our goals. People are often enticed by marketing ploys to help them get in shape, take on new projects, or even coerced into spending more than they can afford. In some instances, it leads to failed attempts to accomplish anything tangible. Society's gullible minions fall for it every year; maybe it is in our nature to disappoint ourselves. Some people may have reasonable successes, while others revert to a lifestyle that is their comfort zone. Change is never easy, especially if you lack the motivation or the determination to succeed. Whether it's weight loss, going back to school, starting a business, or quitting a bad habit. Trying to accomplish anything can be difficult, as you may face numerous obstacles and challenges that can hinder your progress. I have learned that it is profoundly helpful that you set realistic, attainable goals and work towards accomplishing them. Everything takes time and effort, and it does not happen in a short period. It takes hard work, strong unwavering support, and determination to achieve your goals. Seek help and guidance when you need it, do your research, and learn as much as you can. When done right, your rewards are truly meaningful. As you make strides, you gain insight into your capabilities. Mistakes will happen, and failure is not the end; learn from it and don't give up.

“Our goals can only be reached through a vehicle of a plan, in which we must fervently believe, and upon which we must vigorously act. There is no other route to success.”

— Stephen A. Brennan

“Circumstances may cause interruptions and delays, but never lose sight of your goal. Prepare yourself in every way you can by increasing your knowledge and adding to your experience, so that you can make the most of opportunity when it occurs.”

— Mario Andretti

“I don't care how much power, brilliance or energy you have if you don't harness it and focus it on a specific target, and hold it there, you're never going to accomplish as much as your ability warrants.”

— Zig Ziglar

If your goal is to be healthier, be honest with yourself about the steps you will take to achieve it. Even if you fail your first attempt,  that's ok; don't give up. Once you give up, you become overwhelmed with stress and anxiety, and if left untreated, it can lead to depression. When you are overwhelmed by trying to make changes to your life, it will undoubtedly impede your progress. Eventually, any attempt to achieve your goals gets harder over time. It is best to set yourself incremental goals, which will prove easier to achieve and allow you to build on them. The same will apply to starting a new business or changing career; it will take time, investment, motivation, and dedication on your part. It is always helpful to seek guidance and direction.  It will help you stay on track. As you learn and develop as an individual, you will face numerous obstacles and challenges in life; this is a natural part of your individual growth. If you make a mistake or face disappointment, that's ok, learn from them and keep moving forward. If you find yourself at an impasse or a crossroads in life, don't give up. Giving up is an indication that you have not tried hard enough. Never give up on yourself, because giving up is not your only option in life. It is always hopeful to try your best, as you may not know your full potential until you take the initiative and faith to take the first steps toward success. Focus on achieving your goals and plans for the future, and you will be fulfilled when you accomplish them.

“You can, you should, and if you're brave enough to start, you will.”

— Stephen King

“Discipline is the bridge between goals and accomplishment.”

— Jim Rohn

“You don't have to be a fantastic hero to do certain things — to compete. You can be just an ordinary chap, sufficiently motivated to reach challenging goals.”

— Edmund Hillary

When you set yourself realistic, attainable goals, it gives you purpose and direction, providing an incentive to work towards them. As you explore options, allow yourself to explore your skillset; you never know, you might surprise yourself. I firmly believe we all have skills. Some of us may not have realized it yet, but there is no doubt there, and you have to tap into it. You can only reach your full potential when you invest in yourself, and a vital part of that is education. Learn as much as you can, since the rewards are meaningful on so many levels. Even if you face failure, it's not the end. Failure helps you reassess and redirect yourself towards a better path in life. Just something to think about when you find yourself questioning your decisions in life. Realistic resolutions for life are far better than giving yourself a pseudo sense of achievement, as they are always short-lived. Life is full of possibilities; you need to make the required sacrifices, work hard at whatever you set out to achieve, trust and believe in yourself, and remember you have nothing to lose. Just do your best always. Remember, if life has taught you anything yet, common sense is the best education by far; use it wisely, or you will never make sense of anything. Never underestimate yourself.  Your possibilities are endless; make sure you set yourself realistic goals. Please don't wait for the opportunity to come to you; instead, take the initiative and find it yourself. Make it happen for yourself, and you will have no regrets.

"Life is not easy for any of us. But what of that? We must have perseverance and, above all, confidence in ourselves. We must believe that we are gifted for something and that this thing must be attained."

— Marie Curie

“When it is obvious that the goals cannot be reached, don't adjust the goals, adjust the action steps.”

— Confucius

“Set realistic goals, keep re-evaluating, and be consistent.”

— Venus Williams

“A dream becomes a goal when action is taken toward its achievement.”

— Bo Bennett