I was surprised to learn that Confucius and former Boxing Champ Mike Tyson shared equally sage advice about setting goals and achieving them.
Many people choose January 1st as if it’s a “magical date” to establish goals for the new year, Actually, this can be self-defeating. Setting a future starting date gives us permission to continue the unproductive behaviors that got us here in the first place. For example, “I can eat like a horse for the next few weeks until I decide to begin my diet on January 1st.” “Of course, that means I’ll feel more sluggish and I’ll have even more weight to lose.”
The human race has been around for about 200,000 years. January 1st was only designated as the first day of the new year a little over 2,000 years ago. So, when did anyone set goals for the previous 198,000 years?
When Confucius was asked, “When is the best time to plant a tree?” he said, “Ten years ago.” When asked, “When is the next best time?” he said, “Today.” Regardless of the day, setting a goal with a plan to take immediate action, helps eliminate our excuses for inaction.
So, why do so many of people set goals but never achieve them? To quote Mike Tyson, “Everyone has a plan until they’re hit in the face.” Unrealistic goals, setbacks, lack of motivation, or any type of adversity can be the punch in the face that prevents us from achieving our goals.
If you’d like guidance, support and accountability to help you achieve your goals, schedule a free consultation today.. Until then, stay well and take care.
