Setting a goal and aligning your routine to hit your mark is very empowering. But, how do you react when the unexpected occurs and you miss your aim?
If you’re like most people, you probably feel like a failure when doing the one-step-forward-two-steps-back dance. Although the negative feeling after a lack of success is both disappointing and uncomfortable, it’s normal.
Though, it can be difficult to brush the dust off and try to get back into the groove of your routine.
Here are five practical ways to help get you back on track.
1. Accepting Yourself as a Real Life Human
Game plans, routines, strategies, deadlines—these are all great on paper or in theory. More often than not, though, real life and your routine don’t get the same memo.
When real life happens and you’re just not able to stick to your routine, accept yourself as a normal human. Because that is exactly what you are. These little setbacks are going to happen. Such is life.
The best strategy to deal with real life is to take the twists and turns as they come. This knowledge alone is priceless in restoring your routine and getting back on track.
2. Incorporate Your New Changes Into Your Routine
Another great way to help you stay on track is to make your goal-setting changes a natural part of your routine. This means making them a habit. You can even make subtle reminders for yourself.
For instance, putting an empty cup of water by the bathroom sink will remind you to drink a cup of water first thing in the morning. This will help you remember and make it easier for you to accomplish.
You could even make a date with destiny by setting a time frame for your goals. For example: Wanting to read more? Then choose three nights and plan to read a chapter on those nights. Set that time aside and keep the date.
3. Do the Best With What You Have
Life throws curveballs, plain and simple. So, how do you work around this challenge?
You take what you can get.
To put this in perspective, imagine your favorite dessert sitting on the counter. It’s literally begging to be eaten, but you don’t have time to indulge in a full serving. If you’re like me, you’ll probably dash off with a mouthful, at least.
Apply the same theory to your routine. If you don’t have time to read your full chapter then just read three pages. Maybe the day just isn’t allowing for your full 45-minute workout, so just do 25 jumping jacks in the kitchen.
The most important thing is that you’re taking steps forward rather than standing still using up your time and energy making excuses why you’re not moving forward.
4. Focus on Sustainable Steps Towards Progress
One of the biggest mistakes people make when trying to reach their goals is to change everything all at once. This strategy not only leads to a quick burnout but also makes you feel like a failure.
It’s safe to say that your routine isn’t going to be flawless all the time. For instance, you might have to break your own rules and eat sugar after deciding to remove it from your diet.
Rather than giving up altogether, though, just focus on a sugar-free diet during the week. Your cheat day can be when you go to your weekly family dinner on Sunday where apple pie will undoubtedly be served. After all, five sugar-free days are better than none.
5. Surround Yourself with Support
If you want to reach your goals, make yourself accountable to another person. You’re probably more okay with disappointing yourself than you are with disappointing someone else. So, surround yourself with people who will urge you on towards your goals.
Whether it’s a workout buddy or a friend that you talk with frequently, fill them in. This is one of the best ways to light a fire under you on those days when you don’t naturally feel motivated.
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If you’re ready to change your routine so you can reach your goals, I’m here to help you. Together, we can formulate a down-to-earth game plan to develop a workable routing for you and keep it.
