Small Steps Toward Big Goals

Toward the end of 2013, I found Lara Casey's blog. I can't even remember how I stumbled upon it (maybe via Pinterest?), but once I got there, I settled in for a long visit. Lara is essentially overflowing with joy and happiness. Though she clearly has bad days, she has become a master at goal setting and achieving, as well as making what matters happen. I had been looking for a way to jumpstart 2014 and keep some good momentum going, so I decided to purchase her PowerSheets and dig in. 

Essentially, the PowerSheets aid you in determining what your goals are and then breaking them down into small, achievable steps. I found the process really gratifying and enjoyed reflecting upon what worked & didn't work last year. It gave me a perspective that simply wouldn't have been there if I had just jumped in to setting goals. There are worksheets to fill out on the way to figuring out your goals, detailed worksheets on each of 5 goals that you set, and then (my favorite part) monthly "tending" sheets where you break down your monthly, weekly, and daily goals. Check boxes and lists abound, which my type-A personality just loves.

But in all seriousness, breaking down goals into small, achievable steps over a 6-month or year process is such a great way to tackle things. Making monthly goals as the year progresses is all well and good, but actually looking ahead to see what small steps can be taken over the next 6 months is even better. 

For example, we can all have "get in shape" or "exercise more" as a yearly goal, but now I can say I'd like to complete the 30-day yoga challenge at home in February, go on a 30 minute walk at least 3 times a week in March, and sign up for a yoga workshop or class in April. Then, in my daily tending lists, I can put little check marks (so gratifying!) next to every day that I complete my daily goal. 

Lara's approach to goal setting (which you can read a series of blog posts about here) has absolutely inspired me to change the way I think about conquering my goals. It offers just the right amount of self reflection coupled with action items. I absolutely recommend it if you are searching for inspiration as the new year begins. 

This isn't a sponsored post, I just really love Lara and the PowerSheets. :)

Image via LaraCasey.com