Overcoming Procrastination: How to Stay Motivated and Follow Through

Have you ever felt the intoxicating rush of planning new hobbies or goals, only to find yourself losing all interest as soon as you start to take action? This phenomenon is more common than you might think, and it can be demotivating. The key is to break down your goals, follow through consistently, and celebrate small victories along the way. In this article, we'll explore how to stay motivated and follow through with your goals, taking inspired action step by step.

Understanding the Planning Stage

The planning stage can be incredibly exciting! From brainstorming to outlining, it's a creative phase filled with possibilities. This euphoria is often referred to as the "happy landing" because it feels good to visualize the future success. However, once you start working towards your goals, reality can hit hard, and motivation may fade. This is a natural part of the process, but it doesn't have to be overwhelming.

Celebrating the End: The High of Success

The best plans often unfold gradually. If you attempt to achieve too many goals at once, you might feel overwhelmed and burnt out. Breaking your goals into smaller, manageable tasks can make them feel less daunting. As you take these small steps, the "success high" becomes more accessible. Each completed task is a milestone that propels you closer to your ultimate goal.

A Real-Life Example: Following Through with Success

Consider the example of a couple I worked for who received a significant amount of divorce money. Despite the opportunities, they eventually blew through it all. This is a poignant reminder that even when you dream big, the success journey isn't always straightforward. The key is to plan, follow through, and celebrate each step of the way.

Beyond the Planning Stage: Maintaining Motivation

Motivation can be a fickle friend. It's easy to get lost in the daydreams and idealized scenarios of what you could achieve. For instance, a neighbor of mine who had a PhD in Psychology theorized about mentally ill individuals who might be more content within their own minds. Could the same be true for you?

The Armchair Sailor: Mental Adventures vs. Actual Action

Do you find yourself content to dream about going on adventures or pursuing goals, rather than taking the steps to actually achieve them? This mindset can be harmful, as it may lead to what I call "armchair-sailing." Spend too much time in your mind and you might lose sight of the importance of actually putting in the effort.

Writing One Goal at a Time

To combat this, focus on one goal at a time. Break it down into manageable tasks and tackle them one step at a time. It's a strategy that worked for me in my own life. For instance, I spent approximately 11 years completing my education, attending school and pursuing multiple courses simultaneously. Here's a summary of my journey:

1998: Diploma in Fitness and Nutrition 1999: Graduated High School 2003: Certificate in Clerical Skills, Diploma in Photography 2008: Diploma in Fitness Nutrition and Health Science

Remember, it's never too late to start planning and achieving your goals. Stay committed, and you'll reach your destination. Consistency is the key to success, and along the way, you'll experience numerous small victories that contribute to your overall journey.