3 Mistakes to Avoid When Creating Goals for Yourself

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Friday Fix: Episode 130

When you struggle to reach your goals, you might be tempted to blame it on a lack of self-discipline or too many obstacles that stood in your way. But, there’s a chance the problem wasn’t a character flaw or even an environmental issue. Instead, the problem might have been the goal itself.

Most of us weren’t ever taught how to set goals. In fact, we were likely pressured to set an annual resolution but weren’t taught how to create short-term goals for ourselves.

Creating goals for yourself is a great way to establish a happier, healthier life. When you’re working on something, you’ll feel better about yourself. And you’ll be more likely to endure the short-term pain associated with reaching a goal that can lead to long-term satisfaction. 

So whether you want to get in better shape, pay off your debt, become a happier person, or launch your own business, start with a good goal. The way you word that goal makes a huge difference.

In today’s Friday Fix, I explain how to avoid the most common goal-setting mistakes I see as a therapist. And I’ll help you craft a goal that increases your chances of success. 

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If You Liked This Episode You Might Also Like These Episodes:

• Psychological Tricks for Creating Lasting Change With Professor Katy Milkman
• Friday Fix: How to Stop Letting Self-Doubt Hold You Back
• Friday Fix: How to Stop Repeating Your Mistakes