Goal Setting: The Quickest Way to Confidence

Do you find yourself struggling between setting goals and just living in the present moment? There's a tricky line to walk between the two. If you're constantly focused on the future and your goals, you may be missing out on wonderful moments in the here and now. You may also have blinders on and not see unexpected opportunities right before you -something that might even be better than the goal you're working on because you've got your eyes on that future prize that beckons.

I've found a balance that works pretty well for me between goal setting and enjoying the present -it might work for you too. First thing each day I spend some quiet time. Many successful people advocate this habit. William Penn said, "True silence is the rest of the mind; it is to the spirit what sleep is to the body, nourishment and refreshment." So I sit. And watch my thoughts come and go. And after a few minutes I feel myself settling down. And many times, that still, small voice within gives me ideas that move my goal forward. This simple practice keeps me centered and able to be mindful during the day, enjoying the moments for what they are and it also keeps me focused when I am working on something related to my goal so I can get it done more quickly and efficiently.

Another thing that works is to consider what you will feel when you achieve your goal. For me the answer, regardless of the goal, is often that I feel confident, generous and free. When I've achieved something I experience confidence, I feel authentic and strong. I am able to be fully generous with others -with money and kind words and actions. And, I feel free...free to live my life the way I want to. A big key to all this is to pay attention to your current experiences that allow you to feel the way you believe your goal will allow you to feel. Chances are, you already have some of what you are seeking in your life right now. Do more of those things. The more you feel your desired feelings right now, the easier you'll find it to get to your goal.

Lastly, always tell at least one person of your goal and get their support. Of course, be sure to tell someone who wants to support you in living life your way. If you don't get this support, it's much more difficult to stick with it -it's so easy to live each day being pulled in the directions that other people want you to go.

So go ahead and do some goal setting. Know what you want to feel. Enjoy those feelings now, in the present. And live life YOUR way.