Keeping Your Eyes on the Prize
Are you setting big new goals for yourself? Or are you faced with new challenges due to work, school, or life? While going after big goals can be exciting, it can also be intimidating.
Here, licensed professional therapist Yarvell Gardner shares her nine tips on tackling big challenges, staying motivated, and not giving up.
#1: Truly (Truly!) Commit
“Anyone who has ever accomplished anything difficult has shown a consistent willingness to show up and do the hard thing every day,” says Yarvell (pictured). “Your passion and desire for that goal has to be strong enough to supersede any momentary discomfort that will surely come.”
#5: Focus on the Positive
Swap negative thoughts for positive ones, and your attitude is bound to improve, too. Instead of thinking how hard it is to go for that training run, focus on all the beautiful scenery you’ll encounter and how accomplished you’ll feel afterward. If a task is associated with pleasurable thoughts and memories, you are much more likely to do it.
#7: Find Your People
“Find the people who will support you and that you can talk to when things get rough. That’s exactly why support groups exist,” says Yarvell. Find those who share your goal or can help you reach it. It’s great to have support of family and close friends, but you may need to look beyond your inner circle.
Note: Since everyone’s health history and nutritional needs are so different, please make sure that you talk with your doctor and a registered dietitian to get advice about the diet and exercise plan that‘s right for you.