Summarize the following:
Lacking an understanding of your personal values is like going on a trip without a GPS or a map of any kind. Values help us navigate through different circumstances, so that we lead a life that is personally fulfilling. To figure out some of your personal values, answer the following: Which individuals have your greatest respect? What traits do they hold that you admire and why? If your home were on fire (any people and animals are already considered safe), what 3 objects would you save and why? What moments in your life were incredibly satisfying? What about the moment made you feel satisfied? After you have narrowed down a short list of important values, you must develop S.M.A.R.T goals that support these values. Once you have developed goals that allow you to live out your values, do one thing that lets you move toward these goals daily. S.M.A.R.T. goals are: Specific - clearly answer the "who, what, when, where, which, and why" Measurable - outline how you will assess your progress towards the goal Attainable - able to be achieved with the resources, skills, and abilities you have Realistic - the goal provides a challenge but also represents an objective that you are both willing and able to meet Timely - the determined time-frame must be feasible, while including some urgency The most common mental barriers to getting things done are often what we are telling ourselves on a daily basis. If asked why you haven't reached a particular goal, your response is because all the variables are not perfectly in place. These are excuses and you must remove them from the equation in order to achieve your goals. Remove excuses by getting serious with yourself. Whatever you are using as an excuse is probably just a way to protect yourself from having to change. Setting SMART goals should help you to alleviate some of your excuses. For others, such as not having time, money, or resources, closely examine your life to determine what you can afford to cut out. Remove an insignificant activity or cost to prioritize a significant one. Don't wait until all the variables fall magically into place. Purposefully change your life so that it supports you reaching your goals.
Identify your values and beliefs. Set goals that align with your personal values. Eliminate excuses.