We hear lots of talk about change at this time of year. It’s good that we perform these personal assessments annually, taking a more critical look at our accomplishments and measure our satisfaction, with a view to continuous self improvement.
What do we mean when we talk about change? Are we saying we want something different – as in our pattern, routine or current place in time is no longer satisfying? Perhaps the goals we have set for ourselves no longer align with the activities that fill up our day, and new practices need to be put in place in order to achieve those goals.
Research has taught us that we have a better chance at changing behaviour, if we understand the emotional payoff from achieving that goal, ie: why we want to achieve the goal and what has to change.
It has also been documented that those who adopt habits that support the end goal are more likely to keep doing what they are wanting to achieve.
If I want to lose weight, I need to reduce calories in and increase calories out. That means I need to assemble meals that maximize nutrition while minimizing caloric intake and I need to chose the physical activity that will help burn calories, and build muscle that contribute to my end goal.
As a planner, of course I focus on systems and processes in place to reach goals. I assess whether the goals are realistic, and then I collect information as to what activities I need to start doing and which I need to stop, to reach my goals.
That’s what systems are – a number of processes, small activities performed sequentially, that all contribute in some manner to the outcome.
Easy enough. So why do so many people fail?
People may fail at their goals for various reasons, such as lack of planning, unrealistic expectations, procrastination, or encountering unforeseen obstacles. Understanding these factors and addressing them can increase the likelihood of goal success.
Keeping in mind that goals may be short term and long term, and may require no change in behaviour to reach, but typically they require some change. If you are a marathon runner, and train everyday, you probably have a well-entrenched routine that ensures your success when you enter a race. However, if you set your sights on taking your casual morning jog to competing in your first 5k race, you will have to develop a training plan, change your eating habits, seek out a running coach or training partners. These changes are meant to increase your chances for success, and reinforce your commitment to your goal.
This applies to almost any goal you set for yourself – losing weight, buying a house becoming a writer, even becoming a new parent. You need a plan to get there. That’s because you rarely can achieve a goal just on motivation alone.
You may really really want to be a homeowner, and scan realtor sites everyday looking for the perfect home, the fact is that without a plan, or a process in place, you won’t get there. How much money do you need to raise? What resources do you have to help you raise the funds? How much time will it take to realistically raise the funds? Do others need to be part of your plan – like roommates, or investors? Do you need to change jobs or acquire a second job? What are the trade offs?
The most important thing when embarking on a plan or a personal transformation it is to have a clear and compelling vision. Knowing where you want to go provides the direction and motivation needed for successful change. Having a good understanding of the emotional payoff keep you connected and committed to your goal and actions.
