How To Get Unstuck in Setting Long-Term Goals

Have you ever had one of those days where you plan to get a lot done, but when it comes to getting started with work and your goals, you end up feeling stuck? It’s not uncommon, and it can be frustrating. And, even worse, it can result in “decision paralysis” which leaves you not taking any action at all?

Luckily, there are ways to get “unstuck” and feel more motivated to work on goals.

Take a moment to think about your creative process: you have lots of ideas. How often do you come up with new ideas? How often do you execute on new ideas? No matter what, I recommend you keep a notebook on hand (you can get a pocket-sized one) or write down your goals online (in a Google Doc or app; whatever works best for you) to track your ideas.

Here are some simple steps you can take towards progress on long-term goals:

1. Focus on one big long-term goal, but divide it into smaller goals to work on now.

Before I dive into goal setting, take a moment to think about/write down your answers to the following questions: What are your goals for 2020 and 2021? How do you plan on executing the goal(s)?

Let’s say the goal is to build an online community. Launching an online community takes time, energy and commitment, and it’s a great long-term goal. Though, it’s important to remember that creating an online community isn’t something that magically happens (unless maybe you’re a celebrity ?).

By focusing on one larger long-term goal, you get a sense of clarity and purpose. We’ve all looked at to-do lists and scratched our heads as to how to tackle various tasks. And, no matter if you use a notebook and pen or an app to track goal progress, it can get overwhelming to know what to prioritize first.

2. Don’t lose track of the big goal by writing it down, printing it out and putting it somewhere in clear sight as a reminder. Spend time figuring out how the big goal translates into much smaller goals. I loved this article that talks about creating daily habits that increase your productivity, and its focus on “micro and macro goals.”

3. Find an Accountability Partner. Accountability partners–whether they’re friends, live-in partners, family members or colleagues–can really keep us on our feet and motivated in our goals.

4. Be fine with failure and celebrate milestones. Long-term goals can shift over time, and it can change depending on priorities. Sometimes, you’ll have to go through several processes or adjust the goal to fit a new objective. And, that’s okay. With each new idea you’re testing out that’s part of your bigger goal objectives, you’ll learn something new. 

5. Be grateful. In the midst of uncertainty and a hectic schedule, it can be easy to overlook the small successes. I urge you to take time each day to reflect on successes–no matter how big or small. Keeping a gratitude journal for both the morning and evening will let you be mindful of the day. Think about the people in your life and their support for you. What are you grateful for (having a roof over your head, a job, your health, a supportive network)? We all have things to be grateful for, and things to aspire to create.

In what other ways do you keep track of your goal progress? Share in the comments!