runner
runner

Starting a project is tough enough, but staying motivated on long-term goals is even more challenging. I tend to break big projects down into small, bite-sized chunks and tasks. That way, I get the instant gratification of completing daily milestones and simultaneously support my long-term goal.

Another trick that helps is to schedule regular review intervals in which you look at the progress you've made over a period, celebrate your successes and brainstorm ways to supercharge your effectiveness over the next period. I do this on a monthly basis. During a review session, I measure my progress on short-term, mid-term and long-term goals. A few of my considerations:

  • How well did I ship (crank out work)?
  • How well did I manage stress levels, downtime, sleep and healthy habits?
  • Am I happier and healthier this month than I was last month?

Then I'll take a long hike and brainstorm solutions to any issues surfaced in my review session, pondering questions like the following:

  • What tools or resources do I need to ship more effectively?
  • Is anything holding me back from achieving exercise/fitness goals? How can I mitigate or eliminate those obstacles?
  • What changes would help me live a happier, healthier life?

The important thing to remember about long-term goals is that the most hassle-free (and thereby efficient) way to achieve them is to stick to a marathon pace with constant steps forward rather than spurts of sprints and stagnation.

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