If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together. - African proverb
Tired of repeating the same old routine every January, year after year? You make resolutions and create new goals for yourself. You spend money on programs, potions, and gadgets that promise you to get fitter, thinner, happier, more organized. By February you feel defeated and abandon your plans.
Let this year be different. Begin by setting your intentions, which reveal what you want to accomplish (your goal) through your actions and mindset. “Setting an intention is like drawing a map of where you wish to go—it becomes the driving force behind your goals and visions”. (MBJ Mindfulness) Setting daily intentions will help to keep you focused and dedicated.
Next: Create a plan that ensures success
Along the way to success, you will probably encounter challenges. Being aware of obstacles will let you create a fail-proof plan. Let’s look at the top 5 difficulties my clients often face and how to overcome them.
Designating time and following a new schedule. Begin by setting a deadline/end date. When would you like to achieve your goal? This will help you figure out how much time you need to devote toward the task each day/week. While this is often the hardest part, committing to a specific time to work on your goal and then scheduling it on your calendar can be the solution.
Staying motivated. Create ways to keep your momentum going, such as a reward, reminding yourself of the goal, and by celebrating the little wins.
Fear of failure. Be positive, yet realistic. Accept your weaknesses and play on your strengths. Not a morning person? Schedule time in the afternoon. Physical limitations? Get help.
Comparing yourself to others. Find your own style and system, not everyone is wired exactly alike, so do what works for you.
Perfectionism. Remember, “done is better than perfect”! Don’t set unrealistic goals or over complicate things.
The final and most important step is to create positive peer pressure. In other words, find an accountability partner, whether it’s within a group or an individual. With your accountability partner, you can share your wins, talk about your current challenges, and receive encouragement to keep going.
Creating your accountability partnership:
Choose wisely. Select an individual who commits to be available to you, has similar values, and is genuinely interested in helping you succeed. Don’t be afraid to find someone new if a partnership doesn’t work for you.
Join a group of like-minded individuals, such as a mastermind group. In my experience with masterminds, we are there for each other with advice, encouragement, and accountability.
Ask a friend, cooperative family member, or even a professional to help keep you accountable.
Determination, hard work, and a combination of clear daily intentions, a detailed plan, and the right partner(s) can lead to lasting success.
Want to dive a little deeper into the subject of accountability? Check out my NAPO colleague, Julie Bestry's latest post, in which I was mentioned as being one of her accountability partners.
Need accountability in your organizing goals? Call or email me, I’m here to help you, whether in person or virtually. Call 585-201-6009 or write to Yve@organizingbyYve.com.