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Laura Wilkinson
received the gold medal for 10-meter platform diving in spite of going into the
last set of dives in fifth place and having three broken bones in one foot. The
interesting thing about Laura is that during the seven-week period after
breaking her foot, she couldn't practice. So, she used the power of
visualization to imagine herself performing each dive. In spite of the
challenges, she maintained her focus on winning the gold.
Sometimes, it's difficult to maintain a focus on such an important goal. That's
when you take the small steps or mini-goals that will carry you toward your
ultimate desire.
Recently I began jogging on the beach with my husband. It's a three and a half
mile round trip. When I consider the distance and look way down the beach at the
turnaround point, my mind starts in with the chatter, "it's okay to walk a
little way," "why don't you take it easy today, you jogged
yesterday," and "my body hurts, is this worth it?"
What I've discovered is by having a lot of little goals along the way, it's much
easier. For instance, there are lifeguard platforms along the beach and I know
that I can make it from one platform to the next. Or I pick out someone who is
walking and tell myself that I can catch up with him.
It also works to take your mind off the big goal. I do this by watching the
waves, the surfers, and the seagulls and sandpipers. I practice a presentation
or work through a project that's forthcoming. I watch the dogs running and
playing in the waves. And before I know it, I've gone the distance.
Here are some tips from a friend of mine, Nanci McGraw, McGraw Communications.
Use a sticky note pad and write down each tiny step on a separate sticky. Write
each itsy, bitsy detail needed in order to accomplish your mini-goal. Here's an
example.
1. Look up phone number
2. Write down what you want to say
3. Make the call
4. Create file
5. Send update
6. Appreciate yourself for completing this small goal
Stick these in sequence on a wall close by. You'll do 'em, and love taking them
down one by one.
Try Nanci's idea and see if your goals aren't easier to accomplish when you take
them one step at a time.
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