The holidays are often said to be the most wonderful time of the year. However, it is also one of the busiest and most stressful times of the year. There can often be increased demands at work, and your calendar can quickly fill up with social gatherings.
It's hard when we're juggling work with family life. The holidays can be especially tough because they often center around a celebration or finding time for friends and family. And then some find themselves mired in conflict at home or heightened feelings of loneliness.
Unfortunately, the pressure during these months can cause us to get distracted from some of our most important goals. Regardless of your goals, many people find it challenging to stay motivated.
Tips to Stay Motivated
Here are six tips I use to help me stay motivated during the holidays:
1. Write Your Goals Down. The power of written goals is stronger than you might think. When we write our goals down, it becomes easier to achieve them because there's less mental juggling required and more focus on one task at once instead of many different things that need attention simultaneously - which can be tricky! So set up an appointment with yourself soon where you can remove all distractions and focus on your goals for the coming year.
2. Know Why. Writing down why will help keep your motivation high and remind you of all that can happen when you achieve your goals.
For example, your reason behind the goal can be to learn more or advance in some form, but if there are other benefits, like gaining greater self-esteem, make sure to mention those as well.
3. Goal Planning. We usually forget about goals during the holidays because there is so much going on and so many distractions. Make sure to look at your goals and review them frequently.
Tip: keep them on your bedside table and read them when you first wake up (before checking your phone)!
4. Break Them Down. If you want to reach your goals, don't just focus on the result. Instead, break down each step and make it into something manageable. It's not about how fast you move forward--it's taking small steps every day, so your journey isn't overwhelming.
5. Involve Family and Friends. Achieving your goals will be much easier if those around you are a great support system. However, they cannot support you if you don't tell them. Share your goals and their reasons so you can have people to keep you accountable.
6. Allow Yourself to Enjoy the Holidays. Whether your goals are work, life, or health-related, focusing and moving forward on your goals doesn't mean you can't also enjoy yourself!
For example, if the goal is more career-centred, take time away from your laptop to enjoy social events and holiday parties. You will feel more refreshed and inspired when you take time away.
Bottom Line
Above all, keep in mind the holidays can be challenging, so give yourself some grace. Remember that you want to work hard for this life because it will allow room in your schedule and memories worth celebrating! Don't become too rigid with what's expected of productivity; reward yourself often as small steps towards goals while working on projects at home or during office hours are achieved.
If you're waiting for those New Year resolutions, starting them now will help you see results sooner. So, spend some time during the holidays to set goals to help you become more confident in yourself in the new year.
Have financial goals you want to achieve? Have you broken them down and need help with your mortgage? Consider calling us today so we can help you reach your goals more quickly!
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