How many times have you created a plan only to rewrite it months later as if it’s a wildly, new idea? This includes plans & goals like losing a few pounds or spending more time with family and friends.

Our Goals in 2017 rolled over to Goals in 2018 with nothing more than changing the date. The items remained unchecked. We always think “this will be the year”.

You don’t lack willpower and drive.

If that was the case, then you’d have trouble retaining jobs and nurturing relationships. No, what’s not working for these big, life-changing goals is your lack of realistic planning. As in having detailed steps and a process for making these changes come true.

Can’t promise this will work for everyone, but try this…

Think Lifestyle Design

A big part why so many fail at achieving goals — like getting healthy or improving their well-being — is they’re thinking too short term. They make goals like “Lose 10 pounds”.

Lifestyle design is the better way to approach goals.

Do this:

  • Cut out junk and sugary foods for rich, quality meals
  • Talk to professionals about your troubles vs. bottling it up
  • Kick the addictions in place of healthy routines

These actions begin with small steps like discovering new, favorite meals, or checking in to a womens recovery center to help overcome gripping setbacks.

What’s happening?

You’re creating lasting lifestyle changes instead of applying temporary fixes. Suddenly, you’re not counting calories or checking off boxes on your to-do list. Instead, you’re going about your day featuring good routines that are naturally compelling.

This is applicable to all areas:

  • Work and career — Learning something new each day to offer a skill to progress
  • Relationships — Taking a few minutes to call a loved one or send a text message
  • Service — Giving back to the community or practicing your faith

… and the list goes on.

The point is to set not just a goal but how you want to be at the end of this wild ride we call life.

Batches and Small Goals

Of course, lifestyle change is easier said than done. You can’t expect to suddenly remove meat from your diet in an afternoon. Or, jump right into reading instead of watching the tube. No, you’d go a week and start falling back into old habits and favorites.

Instead, do this:

  1. Look at the bigger picture (the end goal)
  2. Set a target date for the complete switch
  3. Create milestones equally throughout the timeframe
  4. Shift your routine to incorporate these changes daily

Are you thinking this goes against the idea of lifestyle design? Well, kind of because it has you focusing on the minutia vs. doing what needs to be done. But…

Some of us need control. We’re the analytical type.

We feel good when goals are accomplished. There’s a rush of excitement. These incremental, batched goals are a great way to create a positive feedback loop with your lifestyle decision.

Is It Worth Changing?

This is, perhaps, the biggest question to ponder…

Why do you want to change?

You’re told to “be different” and “follow your own path”. But, few want to admit their driving force is from external pressure. Pressure from peers, loved ones, or society. Sure, these can help with motivation and accountability — spite happens to be a great, driving force — but you need to consider why you’re willing to make lifestyle changes if you plan to keep them.

Know what works for many?

  • Getting healthier to see their kids grow up
  • Becoming financially independent of the system
  • Obtaining inner peace without the conflict of vices

Stop and think about the end goal of the exercise. Write that answer down if it helps. Then, fully embrace the change — convince yourself it’s for the best — that it’s a change you want.

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What drives you to change for the best?