Goal setting 101

I noticed that my now sixteen year old Aspergian daughter was looking quite perplexed as she tried to comprehend what her teacher expected her to do for a Earth Science Project. She was to create a 5 page brochure like they would have at a college or university promoting a certain field in Earth Science, and she chose geologist. She was waiting for me to help her and I suggested that she start with the title page which was supposed to be covered with pictures related to her chosen field of study. She kept asking asking me to help her start and I kept telling her to start working on the title page but she really didn't seem to know how to begin. Finally I sat down with her and helped her fold the brochure and slowly piece together where the pictures and information should go. She was surprised that once she saw it broken down page by page, how doable it really was.

That pretty much goes for any goal or project that you want to accomplish. If you look at the big picture like my daughter did, it can be a bit daunting. Once you break it down into smaller steps you will realize that it can be done. No matter what it is try taking it one step at a time. For instance if weight loss is your goal and you want to lose that last 10 -15 pounds, that may seem like it will take forever but start with something small like make a pledge to exercise for a minimum of 30 minutes 7 days a week. You don't have to worry about anything else except for the added exercise. You can switch the type of exercise so it doesn't get boring just as long as you exercise every day. According to scientific research it takes about 21 days to form a habit so in 21 days you are well on your way to a regular exercise habit, now you can say for the next 21 days I will eat more fruits and veggies, then once that habit has become established you can say now I will cut out all refined carbs and sugar products.. Once that too becomes a habit you can add another small goal for 21 days and before you know it you have accomplished your goal of losing 30 pounds.

Happy Goalsetting

Monicka