WDYT 11/2020: Goals Setting And Challenges of Isolation During a Pandemic
Many of us are genuinely struggling to cope with the sense of isolation we feel as the pandemic drags on. Sometimes, the feelings are made worse when we get caught up in focusing on what we think we “should” do during this unusual time. What if we shifted our focus? What if, instead of focusing on some kind of external expectation, you chose one or two areas of focus that aligned with what matters to you?
Maybe it is time for some thoughtful goal setting. What would happen if we all asked ourselves, “If I could accomplish one major goal in the next six months, what would it be?” Brainstorm a list of as many as you can think of. You will have a chance to test out whether these goals are really the ones to focus on.
For each other goals on your list, ask these two questions:
- When you think about this goal, do you get excited about the prospect of working on it as well as achieving it?
- Are you motivated to achieve this goal because it’s interesting and important to you, not just something you think would please other people?
If you can’t answer yes to both questions, move on to the next goal on your list. When you are done, you should have a shortlist of goals that really matter to you, things that genuinely match your interests and ambitions. The next step, which may be especially crucial during the isolating time we live in, is to talk to some other people, trusted friends and colleagues, about those goals. These conversations will help you focus in on the one that makes you feel uncomfortably excited. With that goal in hand, you will have a true focus to get you through the months ahead and a chance to see real progress and change in your life.
Keep this in mind as well: These are really trying times. Maybe, for you, it isn’t the time for goal setting. Perhaps you just need to make it your goal to simply get through the coming year in one happy, healthy piece. That is a worthy goal in itself. What do you think?
Do you want to read why sometimes 80 percent is enough? Click here!
