How to See Real Progress This Summer

When you know what you want to accomplish & more or less know how to accomplish it, one of the most frustrating experiences can be making No Progress toward that goal. Here’s one of my Schedule Makeover http://www.ScheduleMakeover.com exercises:

The key to accomplishing anything from finishing a project to going on a trip to climbing a mountain is consistent action in the direction of a goal:

1. Write down what you want to accomplish in a place where you will see it every day. (For instance at the top of my calendar, I have a list of the next places I want to travel. You can also put your goals on your to do list, tape them to your cabinet door, put them up as a screen saver. Whatever works for you.)

2. List out the next steps. For instance, if you’re planning a trip, write down these types of activities:

• Look at calendar for potential dates
• Call friends and/or family to see if these times work for them
• Check out flight prices & set an alert to let you know when costs drop
• Think through lodging/transportation options
• Look up the prices online
• Check if you can use rewards points
• Browse the Web or go to the library or bookstore for ideas on activities
• If traveling abroad, check on necessary paperwork/immunizations and start to schedule appointments
• Buy travel insurance
• Decide if you need to make any purchases & make a shopping list
• Put up out of office messages
• Etc., etc., etc.

3. Make note of anything with a very specific deadline or that needs to be done a certain amount of time in advance (like one month). Look over your calendar and set aside specific days when you will have a reminder to complete these activities on time.

4. Start telling people about what you’re doing so you have some positive peer pressure to keep moving forward (or get a coach to keep you accountable–in an encouraging way ;o).

5. Set aside a certain time each week when you will move forward on less time sensitive activities that need to be completed to move toward your goal. For instance, one hour on Saturday mornings. When you get to that time, spend that hour working on whatever is next. (It’s OK if you don’t finish a whole action item, you just need to be making consistent progress.)

6. CELEBRATE your progress! Give yourself some type of reward for moving forward such as a stop at your favorite ice cream place, a call with a friend, or buying a new book. (Whatever you find motivating.)

7. Watch as you accomplish your goal.

It’s amazing how consistent action leads to results.

In just weeks, I’ve seen the world bloom as the little bulbs that put down roots and put up stalks over the past months burst into flower. Seemingly “overnight” results come from consistent effort.

To stop feeling frustrated, get clear on what you want, plant seeds, cultivate them, and watch them grow!

Have a fabulous day!

Elizabeth

About Real Life E®

Elizabeth Grace Saunders is a time coach who empowers individuals to achieve peaceful, meaningful and productive lives through Schedule Makeovers™ [link to http://www.ScheduleMakeover.com]. Her empowerment coaching frees you from guilt, overwhelm, and frustration!

Discover how you can start enjoying your life TODAY! Look forward to talking with you!

Elizabeth has been featured in Inc magazine, The Chicago Tribune, and on NBC, and is happy to be interviewed for your broadcast or publication.