If you continue to struggle with following through on your goals, try breaking them down into smaller and smaller actions until you run out of excuses for not doing your plan.
Start by creating an action step, then ask yourself, “What will it take to make that happen?” Once you figure this out, use your answer to spell out a new intention.
Each time you identify another action, ask yourself, “What will it take to make that happen?”
Do this again and again until you reach an action you can’t escape, no matter what. Label this final action as a now goal. Then get up from your chair and do it.
By the way, as a shortcut, you can abbreviate “what will it take?” with the letters WWT.
Here’s an example on how to remember to bring your walking shoes to work. Remember that each time you ask the question, your answer becomes your next intention.
What is my intention? Bring gym shoes to work.
WWT? Put them in the car when I get home.
What is my intention? Put shoes in the car this evening.
WWT? Stick a note on my briefcase to remind myself.
What is my intention? Write a note to remind myself.
WWT? Do it right now.
Setting intentions works for everything from tiny goals such as taking a walk, to plans such as training to participate in a race.
Just keep breaking your intentions into small steps that you can accomplish easily. With each new goal, ask yourself, “What will that take?” Then create an action plan for the next part of your goals.
Today’s assignment (My answers are in blue)
1. Write down a goal or activity you want to accomplish.
Get back to walking every day for exercise.
2. Create an action step by asking yourself, “What will that take?” (WWT) Repeat this sequence four or five times in the space below until you have an immediate action step. Then go do it.
WWT? Setting aside a specific time for taking a walk.
WWT? Using my schedule calendar to pick a good time for a walk.
WWT? Pull out my schedule calendar right now and write in the time I will take my walk.
3. Write some notes about how this worked for you.
I have used this exercise a lot during times when I’m stuck and can’t seem to get motivated. It seems like when you break things down into a very small activity, it’s a lot easier to get started, and to stick with my goals.