"The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step." (Lao Tzu) Likewise, any process of personal change begins somewhere, and progress requires that we make that change one step at a time. Late author Stephen P. Covey refers to the "law of the farm." Crops take time to grow. They cannot be hurried. Even when conditions are optimal, the growth of living things has an internal timetable that must be honored.
Losing weight. Grieving a loss. Learning a skill. Building endurance. Discerning one's true calling. They all take time, proceed in small steps, and call for patient persistence.
In the past two weeks, we have looked in broad terms at the questions, "Where am I now?" and "Where do I want to go?" We have envisioned success a year from now. Having painted the picture of desired outcomes, we now ask what actions we can take now to start moving in that direction. "What will I do differently today?"
Designing effective short-term goals is an art with its own learning curve. A goal should challenge us enough to attract our attention, overcome our inertia, and focus our effort. It should be specific and perhaps measurable, so that we know whether we did it or not (and if so, how much). It should identify action that lies within our control. It should be realistic and do-able to increase the likelihood and reinforcement of success.
"I will buy a blank book and a set of colored pens and make two journal entries before next Friday."
"In Tuesday's newspaper, I will look up the times and locations of support groups for my health condition."
"I will spend an hour a day five days this week (MTThFSu) on physical activity (cardio, strength or flexibility)."
"I will interview two people who work in fields that interest me, to learn more about qualifications and opportunities."
"I will listen to a calming audio program a half hour before bedtime every evening this week."
"I will replace pastries with fruit and cheese as a mid-morning snack on weekdays for the remainder of the month."
Let's take small steps that challenge, do not overwhelm, fit into the schedule, and lead in the right direction.
