The key to success

I have often said that the way to be happy in life is to lower your standards.  And that 's true.

Ursula.

But I'd like to revise that thought slightly.

I think that the way to be happy is to feel like you're being successful.  Not necessarily being successful.  Though, admittedly, that doesn't hurt.

So, how do you feel like you're being successful?  Well, I think I've worked it out.  Ready?


Set actual, measurable goals for yourself. 

While it's great to have long term "stretch" goals, you're missing the instant type gratification that we all know and love so well...

We talk about it in the program all the time... One Day At A Time.

Right?

But why don't we apply that to all facets of our lives?

"What do you mean", you ask?

Well, thanks for asking. 

Let me give you some examples from right now in my life:

My new business.  Although I would like to be successful with the company, that doesn't give me anything to measure against.  What is successful?  What does it look like?  How will I know when I get there?

Success means something different to everyone. 

Monetary success to me means that I can afford my rent without wondering what else I can cut back on.  It means that I can afford to go out to dinner without thinking about it.  It means (and here's the biggie for me folks) that I can hire a cleaning service to clean my bathrooms and floors at least twice a month. 

Hey, don't judge.  I have two little boys and spending time wiping what is apparently poorly aimed pee off of the floors, toilet and, yes, even walls of my bathrooms is not my idea of fun.  Little boys (although adorable) are gross.

Ok, but how do you get there?

Well, the business has to be a success.  But that's not specific enough.  I need reinforcement to keep me going.  So, I set short term (usually 1-2 week) goals.  And I pat myself on the back when I get there.

And move right on to the next short term goal.

So, as I mentioned, I finished my website. (Wanna see?  Well, only because you asked so nicely... http://www.just1group.com.  I'm happy for feedback.  It's not "live" but I'd love comments.)  My next goal is to get ready for the networking conference that I'm going to on the 24th and 25th of April and to get at least 20 signups while I'm there. 

See, start small.

Maybe this next example will work if that one wasn't clear.... 

I'm on a quest to lose 30 lbs (32 actually) and get in shape (no, round is not the shape I'm looking for).  It was one of my New Year's goals.  I'm going to the beach for a week over Memorial Day.  I want to be able to wear a bikini and feel comfortable about it. 

So, I'm going to the gym and I'm eating on a plan and I've lost 21 lbs so far.  And I set little goals for myself. 

Today, I was able to fit into a smaller size jeans.   YAY!!!  That's a huge thing for me.  I'm very tall, so it takes a lot of weight for me to change sizes.  And it's the size I want to be (I don't think I'll change sizes again). 

Next goal, lose 6 more pounds.  That puts me 5 from my ultimate goal.  And I'd like to do that by the end of April.  5 weeks... 6 pounds.  Sounds do-able to me....

My real goal though is to be able to feel comfortable without Spanx.  If you're a man and don't know what they are, think really tight control top pantyhose.  Women wear them to smooth over their midsections.  (Truthfully, I always feel like Ursula from Little Mermaid transforming back into her original form when I take them off.  For you men, think Jabba the Hutt.)

I've been wearing them for about 5 years.  All the time.  Even to the gym.  The only thing I don't wear them with is my pajamas. 

I know it's mindset as much as toning, but I'm getting there.  One little step at a time.

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