Here’s the thing about goal/promise making to self or another; it will always cost you something and in some cases it will be some form of sacrifice involved. In addition, we can all agree that we’ve all “been there and done that” when it comes to following through on a goal/promise to self.
We’re guilty of making excuses which prevents us from going the distance and finishing. Along with this acknowledgment, if you’re like me, we usually make every effort to do everything within our power to go the distance in fulfilling promises made to others.
Regardless if the promise is delayed or not, it’s kept. When I began noticing this pattern in my own life, I set about to figure out why, and what I needed to do to apply that same attitude in accomplishing the goal/promise made to self. I know, there’s a sense of pride and honor attached to wanting to fulfill our word when it’s promised to others. It’s easier to excuse yourself from going the distance, but it’s certainly not right to rob yourself of that satisfaction and reward.
There are some things we deal with differently, and end up with the same results, one person would want all the details like the why, how come, what ifs, and there are those like myself who is screaming inside, “just tell me what to do to change it”. However, I do admit that knowing the “why” in some cases is extremely important, because once we know the why/reason; it provides half of the answer. Going forward we know what we must do to avoid going down that path again. The second part is the what/solution which will empower us to keep moving and go the distance.
Reasons behind the excuses that leaves us with unfinished goal/promise:
• It was made on an emotional whim – caught up in the moment of hearing or seeing something that reminded you of what you need to be doing, or an unfinished goal/promise.
• It was started without first giving serious thought to the responsibility or cost involved – a great idea at the time.
• The timing was off – life happens that can interfere with the ability to complete a goal/promise.
• You don’t think you’re worth the time and sacrifice – the “I’ll do it tomorrow attitude” minus the consequences sometimes evades us.
• There is no cost/heart attached to making excuses – it’s in your head and you can easily dismiss or block the impression.
Solutions to stop the excuses and complete the goal/promise
• Write down the goal/promise and answer the following – why, how long, what’s involved and what’s the end result, lays a solid foundation and clears up any nagging what ifs.
• Give yourself a few days to determine if the answers to your questions are pointing toward a resounding yes before you start – this will help to rule out any uncertainty.
• Find one person whom you trust to and give them the liberty to check in keep you accountable- it’s about taking ownership and being a responsible human being.
• Prepare yourself mentally before you begin – yes, it is essential to the successful completion of your goal/promise.
• Have available whatever resources, tools, aid that is necessary to fulfill this goal/promise – this is the time to eliminate any excuses that may pop up.
• Make up a written contract and have you and your accountability partner sign off on it. – would you sign your name to something you don’t intend to honor?
• Journal or keep track on your progress – this is a tool that will be helpful as a filter and encouraging instrument.
We’re all of the opinion and passionately believe that we deserve to be treated with the same respect, and integrity we give to others. In spite of this truth we more times than not, fail to give the same respect and integrity to ourselves, yet aggressively defend ourselves when others don’t.
I think it’s time we get back into the habit of treating ourselves well, and take the steps required to finish the goal/promise that’s been left unfinished. You deserve it and I think you’d agree with me on this.
What goal/promise is still unfinished that need to be completed?
To your health and enjoyment!
