Nourish inwardly

Self-care and self-love are essential for overall wellbeing. So many goals and resolutions revolve around the self, yet the commitment is simply not made a priority. The most important goals are focused on nourishing inwardly, mental and physical health, expanding skills and learning new ones, and being happy with one’s choices and lifestyle.

Demands from jobs, family, responsibilities, budget, etc. take precedence over goals related to ‘self’. Yet, to truly devote time, focus, care and attention to loved ones, careers, financial and other responsibilities we should first acknowledge the importance of self-care, self-love, and committing to our personalized unique goals.

For example – A goal focused on health that includes dedicating time to walking or other physical exercises, better-eating habits, and meditation is not a selfish goal. Creating blocks of time to exercise and meditate and budgeting for healthier meals will result in a better whole self and actually allow more energy and focus to be dedicated to responsibilities. Better health is a form of self-care that not only results in feeling better but also presents an opportunity to set other goals and be more present at work and/or home.

Another example might be setting a goal to expand your education whether through formal class settings to obtain a degree or certificate or self-paced skill training. The time needed to complete this goal may seem like it takes away from another responsibility, but focusing on the ‘why’ and the results will remind you of the importance of expanding your skills and/or education and learning opportunities. The end result may lead to a promotion, career change or possible entrepreneurial opportunity to start your own business. The self-enrichment gained can result in numerous opportunities. The time dedicated to this goal could result in having more ‘free’ time in the future, more income opportunities or a career you enjoy more than your current one.

Your goal is unique to you, your reasons why is unique, and only you can commit to your personalized goal and set your unique pace.

• Please pause.
• Slow down and organize your schedule, your time, and your unique focus.
• Prioritize tasks and goals to nourish inwardly so you can embrace the calm and growth internally that leads to encouraging others to do the same.

I have written posts to help assist in the goal-setting categories and process including defining your goal, but if you have any specific questions please reach out and ask! Comment here or email me at successencourager@gmail.com.

Thank you for reading & following! Connect with me on Instagram for daily inspirational quotes & tips.

The new Enrichment version of my Year in the Life of… goal-setting planner is now available and currently 25% off!! Click on the link to order a copy for yourself and/or get one for a friend. Once ordered please reach out to me and tell me what your current goal focus is!

 

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Setting unique goals

Sometimes it is difficult to set a goal that truly fits into your unique lifestyle and expections. When setting a goal it is essential to ensure the goal aligns with your personal desired outcome. Defining an area of your life you want to enhance or create more time for helps create an action plan that works for you and your pace.

Support from others can encourage success, but please remember your goal is unique to you even if a friend has the same type of goal, most likely your ‘why’ and process are different.

Your goals, and the reasons why you set those goals, are unique to you. You control your process, pace, and dedication toward your goal success. Please do not compare your goals, self-care needs, or process to anyone else. You are uniquely you and your process and accomplishments are part of your own self-discovery.

Goals should encourage growth and even challenge you, but start with what works for you and your current routine then evolve as time passes and after you begin to accomplish certain steps.

Celebrate every decision, every accomplishment, and your unique process as it develops.

What area/goal are you currently focused on?

Thank you so much for reading and following!

Find me on Instagram (successencourager) for daily encouraging tips, quotes, and announcements!

Goals – Know what to pack

My current journey includes focusing on specific goals that are unique to me and self-discovery. Recently, I was reading an article about travel tips. When I read ‘know what pack‘ I thought about that concept and goal-setting; it was a light bulb moment.

I love to travel – especially road trips! Sometimes a long drive is just what I need to recharge & focus.

The Travel Tip article included several essential tips; pack only what you need, dress in layers since weather changes as you travel, pack comfortable attire, take your journal, charger, camera (phone), etc. This advice works well when setting a new goal!

I know it may sound odd, but sometimes relating one focus to another concept offers clarity. Goal-setting requires packing only what you need and being comfortable with the reality of the goal & the steps required.

If you are unsure what to pack (focus on) imagine what is already in your suitcase –

• What do you spend the most time currently doing?
• What makes you the happiest & fulfilled?
• Are the things that make you happy actually in your suitcase or sitting off to the side?
• Reflect for a while & then pack & unpack accordingly – give your main goal a definition & label it…write out what you want to focus more time on.

Dress in layers so you add & remove as needed. Layering out a plan supports action so you can dedicate time to the goal focus that means the most to you. Start out with a layered action plan made of 3 to 5 steps.

Step one should include a real reason why you want to focus on the chosen goal. Add a few simple steps to get started & adjust as needed. Add more steps at your own pace.

Resources include such things as a journal, charger, camera, etc. These suggested items can literally be part of your process or you can discover other tools & resources needed for your specific trip. I personally keep a journal and/or planner with me at all times to record ideas, quotes, progress, etc. I also read a lot about my current goal focus, recently I have been reading a lot of self-discovery books and a few fiction ones too.

Your journey will include detours, rest stops, and maintenance along the way. Staying focused on your path will help you adapt to the direction that best guides you.

When you pack what you need & remember your ‘why’ you can truly enjoy the ride & incorporate realistic steps for your goal into your unique routine.

What is your current goal focus? What should you pack in your suitcase? What resources are on your list? Comment or email me at successencourager@gmail.com.

Find me on Instagram (successencourager) for daily encouragement quotes!

Thanks for reading and following; keep goaling!

Defining uniqueness

How do you define or discover your uniqueness? If we are all unique individuals and have our own personal journey then what magic formula can ‘fit us all’?

There is no magic formula for becoming the best version of yourself. You do not need my permission to evolve into your highest self. You simply need your permission and self-love. Love yourself so much you dedicate time to your joys; learn to listen to your inner voice and take action to encourage it.

There are so many learning styles, goals, definitions of happiness and processes to create a future that is unique to each of us. By empowering ourselves to discover our personal uniqueness and encourage others to discover theirs, we define what being valued looks and feels like. We not only respect the differences we embrace and encourage them.

The formula is unique for each of us, yet requires one common thread – – – Time…dedicated time. Acknowledge what completes you, what brings you joy, what burns inside of you and dedicated time to your journey; encourage your uniqueness.

What is your unique process to focus on your goals?

Also, I’m excited to announce that my goal focused journal planner is now complete & available in small batch printing!!! This planner even has a section to record your weekly recap, current read, daily focus (wellbeing, spirit, etc.), and is simply published so you can personalize it for your own unique journey! My excitement about seeing a completed goal in print form is beyond measure and my gratitude to all of those encouraging me and supporting me extends to all visiting my sites! The planner is currently 15% off.

Questions? Comment below or email me – successencourager@gmail.com

How to be you

The simple phrase ‘be you‘ can seem quite complicated. It’s a phrase, mantra, and question that is asked so often and encouraged in daily social media quotes. I am a huge fan of the phrase, it’s simple to say….yet it’s a bit more time consuming to define. I have had several conversations with several personality types that struggle with this ‘simple’ phrase, including myself.

So just how do you ‘be you‘?

• Goal-setting is unique to you. I have talked about a week-long process for goal defining and setting in past posts and strongly encourage self-discovery through goal-setting. To set a goal means you realize what you want to accomplish and what will bring you joy. Even if you do not have a concrete action plan in place exploring what makes you happy is a huge accomplishment and process. Defining yourself through unique goals brings you closer to being your authentic self.
• Focus on self-care. I believe goals and self-care go hand and hand. Self-care is acknowledging your mental, emotional, and physical well-being need attention. Overall health and happiness are keys to being yourself.  When you embrace the areas in your life that need your attention, you can ‘be you’ comfortably. Part of self-care that encourages ‘being you’ is meditation and focusing on your thoughts; being mindful.
• Surround yourself with a supportive circle. Ask yourself – Who balances with me? Who supports me and invites my support? Does this circle embrace and encourage your unique self? Do you encourage uniqueness in return? Find a support circle that is a good balance of a unique group.
• Learn. Expand your knowledge by researching and learning about what you find of interest. Study and perfect certain hobbies or professional development. I encourage you to reach beyond your comfort zone and learn something new as often as you can. Learning helps you express your uniqueness and builds confidence.

There are several tips shared via articles, blog posts, social media discussion boards, etc. I think the four above sum up the basics and are realistic to incorporate without getting too time-consuming or complicated. I’d love to hear how you focus on being you! Send me an email or comment below!

Also, I’m excited to announce that my goal focused journal planner is now complete & available in small batch printing!!! This planner even has a section to record your weekly recap, current read and daily focus (wellbeing, spirit, etc.)! My excitement about seeing a completed goal in print form is beyond measure and my gratitude to all of those encouraging me and supporting me extends to all visiting my sites! The planner is currently 25% off.

Questions? Comment below or email me – successencourager@gmail.com

 

 

Set goals that support well-being

As you may know, I set a fiction reading goal this year. I’m also excited to be working toward a healthier more active lifestyle. These goals are personal to me and support my well-being. By choosing goals that are personally realistic and of interest to me (bring me joy) I allow myself to focus on accountability and by tracking my progress, I can focus on incorporating a little more to each goal as time allows and I feel comfortable.

The rule with goals is…there are no set rules. Sure, there are the basic steps, but goals are just as unique as the individuals setting them.

Even if a million other people set reading goals the process and reason could be entirely different for each. The start date and dedicated time are most likely different. For some January 1 is a great energetic day to begin a new goal, but if you have a job or other responsibilities that are hectic during that time then it might seem like the worst date to start. Dedicating time in the morning may work for you or a long lunch or before bed.

Goals should:

• Help you accomplish or incorporate something into your life that brings you joy
• Create happiness
• Balance your responsibilities, self-care, and personal growth
• Bring you closer to a bigger goal
• Support your overall wellbeing

Focus on a personal goal:

• Start by defining a goal or a positive habit that you know will bring you happiness and encourage a positive well-being
• Dedicate time daily that works with your unique schedule
• Celebrate progress and adapt as needed

What does your goal-setting look like? How do your goals encourage positive wellness?

Also, I’m excited to announce that my goal focused journal planner is now complete & available in small batch printing!!! This planner even has a section to record your weekly recap, current read and daily focus (wellbeing, spirit, etc.)! My excitement about seeing a completed goal in print form is beyond measure and my gratitude to all of those encouraging me and supporting me extends to all visiting my sites! The planner is currently 25% off.

I’m working on setting the date for my first goal-setting small group workshop!!! More on that soon!

Questions? Comment below or email me – successencourager@gmail.com

Small steps for goal success

Since committing to my reading goal I have actually been able to focus on other goals that I typically try to work on throughout the entire year. I think that is the amazing thing about focusing on what may seem like a small goal…it triggers the desire to focus on more. My fiction-reading goal has helped me relieve stress, clear my mind and has made it easier to determine what goals are most important.

I love encouraging others to determine their goal focus and define the goal(s) they want to focus on right now, so I wanted to share some of my personal thoughts and goal focus.

My overall wellbeing is always important to me and on my mind. I have incorporated several changes to my diet over the past few years. I set time aside to meditate. One area that I struggle with though is physical activity. In the past, I made time for the gym, walking, swimming, yoga, etc. With three surgeries in four years, I have not really been able to find my groove or get back into a routine that works for me. I sit most of my workday. It’s been difficult to set a schedule to workout.

This past weekend I shifted my thinking. It might be difficult, but it’s not impossible. My last surgery was almost 7 months ago…I feel I’m still in a bit of the healing process and dealing with some other minor health concerns that have been part of my life for several years…again…it’s not impossible to focus on my physical health though. I realized this weekend that focusing on ‘starting’ a new routine based on my past ability was not fair to myself.

So what happened this weekend? I shifted thoughts from ‘how can I get back to where I was’ to ….where can I start NOW? What small step could be taken right then and there that would get me started? I got up and went to the closet…I had purchased a peddle / under desk cycle about 3 years ago (yes, THREE years ago). I used it now and then…but it had been put away for months and months. I pulled it out of the closet, dusted it off and sat it right in front of my chair. I did a few stretches and then sat down and started peddling.

I started peddling! Sure sitting and peddling isn’t where I was a few years ago when I was walking 3 to 5 miles any given day…but it was a start. I cycled for 16 minutes. I did some more stretches and started my day. I seriously felt more energetic…just 16 minutes and a different mindset and I felt better…Then another 16 minutes that night with a few more stretches. Yesterday was the same routine (two sets of 17 minutes and stretches). I cycled this morning for 17 minutes before work. I have been up out of my seat more today during my work morning. Oh and I even picked up my 5-pound arm weights and used them while cycling!

It’s a start and I’m celebrating my start. More so than the actual physical benefit, right now I am more positive and focused and excited about ‘starting’. A small step…a start…and who knows by this time next month I may have added workout aspects…six months from now I might be adding miles and intensity. Right now I’m moving. I’ve started. I’m excited and not allowing my thoughts about ‘where I use to be in a workout routine’ diminish where I am right now.

Small steps to my goal to better health –

• Cycle at least 15 minutes each morning and each evening while adding stretches before and after.
• Get up and walk around more at work; use the restroom on the second floor so I’m walking up the stairs at least a few times a day.
• Stay focused on my diet, cut back on some sugar.
• Use light arm weights periodically
• Define my why – Why do I want to workout/increase my physical activity? Because I want to feel better…I want my muscles to strengthen and not ache as much, I want to have more energy, I want to be more active with my nephew…

What small steps are you taking today?

Also, I’m excited to announce that my goal focused journal is now complete & available in small batch printing!!! This planner even has a section to record your weekly goal focus and record your daily focus (wellbeing, etc.)! My excitement about seeing a completed goal in print form is beyond measure and my gratitude to all of those encouraging me and supporting me extends to all visiting my sites!

Questions? Comment below or email me – successencourager@gmail.com

Goals are not trends

Goals are personal action plans that celebrate your uniqueness! Goals may seem similar to others, but the reason you set your particular goal is unique to you.

The reason why you want to accomplish a goal is the force behind accomplishment tailored specifically to you.

Dedicate time to discovering why you want to accomplish a certain goal and the action plan will develop. You will set steps in motion to achieve your goal or develop your positive habits.

I’d love to hear what goal you are working on! Share below or email me successencourager@gmail.com

Today my journal planner is 40% OFF! Find more about it here.

The unique calendar journal (planner) will help guide you on your daily journey during this ‘year in the life of…’ YOU.

Keep goaling!

Goal setting method

I personally use a goal setting method I call the window pane. It is a layout of the goal categories I focus on (read more about those here). There is a section with this method in my goal setting journal (on sale on sale now!)

How does it work?

• Review each category and the definition:
  • Well-being – Mental and physical health; stretching, walking, meditation, conscious eating, plenty of water. Ask yourself – What are my health goals, what are my limits?
  • Spirit – Self-care, gratitude journaling, positive affirmations, create, hobbies. Ask yourself – What brings joy and peace? What nourishes me?
  • Circle – Mutual relationships that allow you to give and receive support; family, friends, work friendships, recovery groups, clubs or hobby groups. Ask yourself – Who balances with me? Who supports me and invites my support?
  • Productivity – Daily routine; work, volunteering, caregiver, budgeting, learning. Ask yourself – What is my current daily schedule (define it). What do I want my future schedule or routine to look like and consist of?

• Create four sections (or use the layout in the journal) that looks similar to a window pane. Put the title of each one category in each corner. Write out your definitions of important areas in your life for each of the categories.
  • For example for Well-being, I have noted that I miss yoga, but enjoy my daily meditation. A goal that could result from this is to sign up for yoga class or research free video options and incorporate into my daily routine.
• Review your list and ask:
  • Where can I improve?
  • What area do I connect with the most?
  • What area needs attention?
  • Which area can I focus on starting today?

Once you see the layout and can focus on the area that you connect with most you can set small steps to create your new current goal focus. Don’t get overwhelmed and think that all areas need focus at once. It all starts with one focus; one step. I sometimes keep my window pane visible where I can see it daily as a reminder of what I’m focused on and what I will take a step toward each day!

I’d love to hear what your main category focus is! Comment below or email me at successencourager@gmail.com. Find me on Instagram for daily encouragement quotes!

Thanks for reading and following; keep goaling!

Goals are works in progress

No matter how many posts or quotes I share about goal setting I am always working on the main one with a few others floating around in my mind! Goals are works in progress. Some may be completed, but other branches of that goal extend out and need attention. For example, a goal to lose 10 pounds doesn’t completely end after those 10 pounds are gone. That accomplishment most likely requires maintenance and serves as a catalyst for other positive habits and goal setting.

I have talked about categories before and more about those can be found here. Categories help me focus, organize my main focus and helps me stay accountable. My current goal is a blend of productivity and spirit (most categories overlap).

My goal setting encouragement journal was a work in progress for almost three years (some brainstorming started before that!). Sharing something with the world that I am so very passionate about has truly fed my spirit. The challenges have strengthened me, I’m truly grateful for the amazing relationships I have built and beyond excited that I actually have a printed version of a dream turned into a reality! This goal is far from complete though; it’s certainly a work in progress.

This goal has inspired several other goals. Through the challenges and lack of a mass sell out I have discovered so much about myself & looking forward to much more discovery! Without all of the mini goals and celebrated accomplishments, I could have lost focus. Even as I type this I am working on a cover re-design; (goals are works in progress)!

Your goal is unique to you. Your why is personal to you. No matter how grand or simple your goal may seem, it’s worth your attention and dedicated time. It’s part of you, it’s part of your journey that will create your future.

Live with intention (defined as a determination to act in a certain way and to live with a plan). I encourage you to focus daily on creating your joy and peace. You are capable and worthy. Whether you focus on a category, a personal or professional goal, or a dream you keep thinking about. Take action. Create the steps. Celebrate accomplishments!

I’d love to hear what current goal you are working on! Share in the comments below or email me at successencourager@gmail.com. Find me on Instagram for daily encouraging quotes.

You can purchase my goal setting journal here. With revised cover and currently 25% off; under $15!

Thanks for reading and following!