How to Make Your Personal Goals Flexible, Yet Achievable
Introduction
Setting goals for ourselves is a critical step towards achieving success. Goals help us focus on what we want to achieve in the long run. However, sticking to rigid goals can sometimes leave us feeling demotivated and stressed. This is where flexible goals come in. In this article, we’ll look at how to make your personal goals flexible, yet achievable.
Understanding Rigid and Flexible Goals
Before we delve into how to make your goals flexible, it's crucial to understand the difference between rigid goals and flexible goals.
Rigid Goals
Rigid goals are those that are set in stone without any room for adjustment. They are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). Rigid goals tend to be highly focused on outcome, with little consideration for the journey.
Flexible Goals
Flexible goals, on the other hand, allow for adjustments and shifts in direction. They are more process-oriented and focus on the journey as much as the intended outcome. While they still need to be specific and measurable, they do not need to be as rigid as traditional SMART goals.
Benefits of Flexible Goals
Flexible goals have several advantages over rigid goals. Here are a few benefits:
- Less stress and pressure to perform
- Increased motivation and enjoyment
- Greater likelihood of success
- Increased resilience and ability to adapt to changes
Making Your Goals Flexible
Now that we understand the advantages of flexible goals, it's time to look at how to make your goals flexible. Here are a few steps to follow:
1. Focus on Process Goals
Process goals are those that focus on the actions you take to achieve your desired outcome. Unlike outcome goals that are focused on the end result, process goals allow you to focus on the journey. For example, if your outcome goal is to lose 20 pounds, your process goal might be to exercise for 30 minutes five times a week. This focus on the process allows for more flexibility as you can adjust your actions as needed while still working towards your desired outcome.
2. Avoid Overcommitting
One of the biggest mistakes people make when setting goals is overcommitting. They set too many goals or unrealistic goals that are impossible to achieve. This leads to stress and the feeling of failure. When making your goals flexible, it's important to avoid overcommitting. Set a few goals that are achievable and focus on them. You can always add more goals as you progress.
3. Build in Flexibility
When setting your goals, build in flexibility. For example, if your goal is to read 20 books in a year, allow for some flexibility. If you fall behind on your reading, adjust your goal and aim to read 15 books instead. This allows you to stay motivated and focus on progress rather than perfection.
4. Celebrate Small Wins
Celebrate your progress, no matter how small. When you achieve a small win, take a moment to acknowledge your achievement. This will help keep you motivated and working towards your goals.
Conclusion
Flexible goals provide a more realistic and enjoyable way of achieving your desired outcomes. By focusing on process goals, avoiding overcommitting, building in flexibility, and celebrating small wins, you can make your goals flexible yet achievable. Remember, the key is progress, not perfection.