How often did you start something and then got distracted by shiny stuff on the way or just ran out of breath in the process? Really committing to a goal and staying on the path no matter what - that's one of the hardest things to do. Finishing what you start - that's the only way to harvest your fruits of success.
But it's easier said than done. Life happens with all it's distractions, challenges and problems it throws onto us. So how can we make sure to succeed and stay on track?
Start something whenever you feel the urge to really do it. Having a New Year's resolution just for the sake of it or because everyone else is having one is not a strong initial spark to fuel ones journey of success.
Really visualizing goals is one of the first crucial steps to turn the invisible into the visible. How often did you tell yourself you want to get fit or lose weight? Those goals are usually too general and lack sufficient vision. Instead be honest to yourself: Why do you want to get fit or drop those 10 kgs? It might be because you want to fit that dress or suit you are contemplating (visualize yourself wearing those clothes as detailed as possible). Or maybe you want to live a good example for your kids, look amazing on your wedding, impress your peers or just get laid. There's no judgement, what matters is that you find your true inner motivation.
Tell as many people as possible about your goal! This will pressure you to really commit and you might even get more support from those people that ensures you staying on track further.
Write down a list of things you intend to do to reach your goal. Treat it like a project and draft your own plan of success.
Break your goal down into smaller pieces. It is important to carve out intermediary targets that are reachable sooner to enjoy rewards on the way.
Try to anticipate phases of low to no motivation and draft your emergency plan for those cases.
Already working on crushing your goals? I'd be happy if you share them with me -remember sharing will keep you motivated ;)