Springtime always seems to bring with it a sense of rejuvenation and new beginnings.
There is probably a change that you’ve thought about committing to in your life, whether it’s picking up a new hobby, finishing an old project, or breaking a major bad habit. For the ADD/ADHD brain type, that usually means jumping in with gusto – and then abandoning your goal halfway through. My advice: stop joking around, and create a Mission that you can stick to.
Seeing is Believing
I love the saying “A task begun is half done,” because as long as you make a good, honest effort at the outset, it really does ring true. If you’ve ever tackled the same goal over and over in fits and starts, you probably know what not to do – just start in on a whim, and get discouraged easily by inconveniences or distractions or roadblocks. The key is to create a Mission so comprehensive that simply following it step-by-step will feel like the easy part. Start with the ultimate goal of your Vision. Describe it in detail, including all of the feelings of accomplishment and fulfillment that you will achieve. Rereading this goal will fill you with inspiration if you get discouraged along the way. One major tip: write the goal in the present tense, just as you will say it when it is reality. You have to believe that in just a short time your vision will be a matter of fact.
Plan, Plan, Plan
Next, write out your Mission. This is your step-by-step plan that covers all the details you can think of to achieve your vision. Be as thorough as possible. Brainstorm the detractors that will crop up along the way. For example, if your plan includes taking a class, other factors to consider from the start would be transportation, traffic, parking, book and supply fees, and time outside the classroom for homework. Another tip is to look ahead for holidays, vacations, and other events that could interrupt your progress, and work them into the plan (even if it means ‘take a week off’). Also include anyone that will be a player in achieving your mission: family, friends, loved ones, coworkers, your ADD/ADHD treatment team. The bigger your support system and the more people involved, the more accountable you will be to fulfill your goal. The best addition to your team may be a coach or specialist, who can advise you in a professional capacity and help you through the tough times while working towards your Vision.
Follow these steps and you will be well on your way to starting an online business, running a marathon, improving your family communication strategies, or whatever your unique goal is!
