False-Starts

Are you working toward a goal? Have you set a plan to meet that goal?

You have? Great!

Now… toss it. That’s right, toss your plan right out the window.

“What’s this?” you ask? Has Helen Burton, lost her marbles? Well, yes and no…

This may sound unusual but, in most cases, when we set a “PLAN” to meet a goal, it is typically, what I’d like to call a, ‘false start’.

Maybe you will recognize a ‘false start’ as I try to explain…

• You really want to loose weight. Before you can start watching the food you eat, you have to check your family calendar, (and your work calendar and your kids’ calendars…) to see when this plan will fit in your life.

• You want to create better relationships. You “plan” to buy a book and read it IN ITS ENTIRETY, before accepting an invitation that may offer you a new opportunity.

• You want to exercise more. BEFORE you can lace up a new pair of running shoes, you PLAN to listen to a 4 hour CD about the dos and don’t of getting in shape.

Now, before I continue…..THERE IS NOTHING WRONG with these steps.

Nothing wrong about doing some research or educating yourself.

The ‘PLAN’ breaks down when it takes much longer than needed or delays you from taking real action toward your goal.

My experience of helping individuals to effectively achieve their goals has helped me to immediately identify these ‘false-starts’. Clients typically are unaware of their seemingly good intentions. Having a good listener or coach, supporting you, is the best way to help you avoid this common issue.

And know this, we have all done this. Even me!

Helen’s SOLUTION:
Stop the false starts…they are nothing more than an excuse or excellent method of procrastination. Eliminate them all.

Breathe deep and promise yourself to take a small step TODAY. An example, “I will genuinely compliment someone for a job well done.”

Helen’s Incentive TIPS:
Like I said, I too, am guilty of many false-starts. This month I offer you some of my daily secrets for staying in action.

• Each Morning: Decide the small step you are going to take that day. Give yourself a beautiful gift of practicing the same step until you feel comfortable.
• During the day. Be aware of your accomplishments and lessons learned.
• At Night: Acknowledge yourself for your accomplishments and lessons learned.

Reminder: Review the lessons learned and adjust your small steps where needed. Work with a friend or join a support group so you receive and feel supported for each milestone accomplished.

Action Step: Now it’s your turn!