Happy New Year!
How are your New Year’s Resolutions coming along? Still hanging in there? Sometimes, we shoot for the stars when thinking what our resolutions should be each year. Anyone going to the moon this year, JK!
As an occupational therapist, I have spent many hours creating care plans for my Patients. They always include Long-Term Goals and Short-Term Goals.
Why Short-Term Goals Matter
I am sharing this with you because we often overlook short-term goals altogether. Short-term goals are mini goals, stepping stones to reach (and celebrate) along the way. For instance, if my Long Term Goal (New Year’s Resolution) is to live in the moment, I could start by creating a few short-term goals to start with. Example: 1. I will notice my mind drifting during dinner with my family and redirect my attention; 2. I will meditate for 3 minutes every day for one week. And then, as you meet these short-term goals you can make another one (and celebrate and pat yourself on the back each time). All of these short-term goals keep you on the path, progressing toward that Long-Term Goal of yours. And furthermore, keep us excited along the way, making us less likely to be overwhelmed and give up altogether!