Do you think using a different word for something can create a different outcome?
For example, we hear so much about resolutions this time of year. But we also know that, statistically, most New Year’s resolutions fail. I believe one reason they fail is because they’re about changing things in ourselves, our lives, or our behaviour that we don’t like.
There can be a lot of built-up negative emotion around something like that.
Whereas feeling grateful for what we currently have (our starting point) seems to me like a much better place from which to ask for improvement.
That’s why, personally, I’ve always preferred setting goals.
It just seems more optimistic to me.
You can have lists of desires, actions, intentions…but in my understanding, those are too open-ended. Goals can still be vague, and there’s the question of whether they should have a timeline or not, but they can be more purposeful to many of us.
Building on that, there’s a specific way I recommend you set goals this year that might be different, but that I think you’ll find extremely rewarding, and it’s this:
Make your goals about things you can control vs. things you can’t control.
For instance:
You can’t control how much weight your body releases in any given timeframe.
You CAN control exercising three times per week.
You might not be able to control how much energy, clarity and mobility you have, but you can control moving more, eating better, and committing to regular chiropractic adjustments.
The point is to be process-focused and make your activities congruent with the outcomes you want. Next, let go of any attachment to the result. Do the process and let the results take care of themselves.
Jim Camp, who was known as “The World’s Most Feared Negotiator” and was hired by the FBI to teach their negotiators, said:
“Think behaviour. Forget result.”
Call it a few words of wisdom from one the most persuasive men in history – for persuading yourself to take action on your goals this year! I hope you’ll write them on a sticky note and put them on your fridge.
You’ll be surprised how much this one little mantra frees you up to accomplish.
Try setting goals this way, and in a few weeks, send me a note to tell me how it’s going, ok?
One more thing:
I like to set goals.
But you should call yours whatever makes you feel motivated. Different words mean different things to different people. If you like making resolutions, then go right ahead. My point was to think about how the word makes you feel and adjust accordingly.
And if there’s anything I can do to help, don’t hesitate to let me know!
I wish you all the Health, Success and Happiness you deserve in 2020!
Sincerely In Health,
Dr. Josh
