Sometimes a goal can feel so large and overwhelming that it paralyses us from ever starting. If we re-frame our goals into smaller bite sized chunks or 'micro-goals' we have more chance at succeeding. We can use these micro goals to create daily systems that will take us step by step to our end goal.
This is the second part of my posts on how to plan to persevere. See part ONE on self-belief and how to value your goal here.
What is the difference between a GOAL and a SYSTEM? The goal is your aim, your desired outcome. The system is the planned steps you will take to reach that goal. The goal is important for sure, but it is by focusing on the system, on each step as it comes, that will bring you the most success.
Examples:
If your goal is to loose weight, your system is your nutrition and training plan for the month
If your goal is to learn a subject, your system is your study structure for the month
1. Break large goals down into micro goals. This way you make the overwhelming goal feel more manageable. It gives you bite size pieces to focus on and celebrate when completed. How can you spit your large goal down?
It's best to put realistic completion by dates on each micro goal to keep you rolling in the right direction.
LARGE GOAL: Loose 6 kg in 3 months
Micro Goal: Be working out 3 times a week by week 2
Micro Goal: lost 1 kg by week 4
Micro Goal: Lost 2 kg by week 8
Etc
2. Use your micro goals to help build your daily system. I have written a more in-depth post on how to set up a daily system here where I give examples of how I have set up my own plan. When working on a goal we focus on the day by day system that will get you there more than the end result. This means scheduling what you need to do on what days each week to hit each micro goal. Then all you need to do is stick to that schedule and enjoy the process.
Example: If your goal is to loose weight, your system is your training plan for the month
· The Goal is to loose 6 kg
· The Plan to start exercising
· The System is the workout schedule - Swimming on a Tuesday. Gym class on a Thursday, Jog on a Saturday
You are well on your way to creating a successful plan to reach your goals. Keep going by heading over to Step 3: Facing Obstacles here