16 answers
Samaya
Student
Johnston, Rhode Island
2
Questions
Asked
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How did you push yourself to reach that goal and not give up?
How did you push yourself to reach that goal and not give up? What strived you to want that goal? When did you end up reaching it and did you realize it was worth it?
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16 answers
Delilah Mokri
User Experience Designer
4
Answers
Hayward, California
Updated
Delilah’s Answer
I think the key here is to distinguish your short term goals from your long term goals. It has been extremely helpful for me get an idea of what my long term goal is (and trust me, that will be edited ruthlessly as you go along) ~ and from there, you'll want to reverse engineer the steps it takes to get there to develop short term goals. It's easier to accomplish a bigger task by breaking it down into smaller ones. Also, it is important to stay open-minded and course correct throughout this journey. Be easy on yourself, your goals might change, you might see how certain paths cross and help lead you into different destinations. Try to remember the bigger picture and enjoy the ride along the way!
Elyse K.
Instructional Design Manager
1
Answer
San Francisco, California
Updated
Elyse’s Answer
Hi Samaya!
This is a great question that can be applied to many parts of life!
For me, things that help me reach my goals include:
1. Writing down my goal and making sure it is SMART (Specific, Measurable, Actionable, Relevant and Timebound). See more details on how to write these here: https://www.atlassian.com/blog/productivity/how-to-write-smart-goals#:~:text=What%20are%20SMART%20goals%3F,within%20a%20certain%20time%20frame.
2. Creating a network of social support around me to cheer me on and help keep me motivated when times are tough. This can be sharing a goal with a close friend, partner, family member, mentor or classmate. I can share my feelings with them, they check in on my progress, and help me problem solve along the way.
3. Positive framing / growth mindset - Stretch goals are so important to our development, but "being stretched" typically means leaving my comfort zone and sometimes, having self-doubt. When I notice this, I try to reframe that I don't know it "yet!" and take time to celebrate all of the small wins and learnings along the journey. I always try to remind myself that the learning along the way to the goal is just as rewarding if not more rewarding as meeting the goal itself!
4. Creating time for self-care - achieving a goal is a marathon and not a sprint! I've found I have the most endurance when I make sure to integrate healthy day to day practice to increase my resilience - good sleep, exercise, a healthy diet and activities that help me relax (reading, walking, doing an art project, journal and avoiding social media ;) ).
5. Be open to flexibility and improvising if need - one last thing that has helped me achieve my goals is to be open to the process, learning and changing my strategy if needed. Sometimes, I may have assumptions at the start of my journey that I learn aren't 100% true and I will need to change my approach. Being nimble and adaptive is apart of the process to meeting our goals!
I hope this helps! This approach has helped me complete graduate school, get my first post-college job, move across the country and much more! I know you'll do great with your goals as well :)
This is a great question that can be applied to many parts of life!
For me, things that help me reach my goals include:
1. Writing down my goal and making sure it is SMART (Specific, Measurable, Actionable, Relevant and Timebound). See more details on how to write these here: https://www.atlassian.com/blog/productivity/how-to-write-smart-goals#:~:text=What%20are%20SMART%20goals%3F,within%20a%20certain%20time%20frame.
2. Creating a network of social support around me to cheer me on and help keep me motivated when times are tough. This can be sharing a goal with a close friend, partner, family member, mentor or classmate. I can share my feelings with them, they check in on my progress, and help me problem solve along the way.
3. Positive framing / growth mindset - Stretch goals are so important to our development, but "being stretched" typically means leaving my comfort zone and sometimes, having self-doubt. When I notice this, I try to reframe that I don't know it "yet!" and take time to celebrate all of the small wins and learnings along the journey. I always try to remind myself that the learning along the way to the goal is just as rewarding if not more rewarding as meeting the goal itself!
4. Creating time for self-care - achieving a goal is a marathon and not a sprint! I've found I have the most endurance when I make sure to integrate healthy day to day practice to increase my resilience - good sleep, exercise, a healthy diet and activities that help me relax (reading, walking, doing an art project, journal and avoiding social media ;) ).
5. Be open to flexibility and improvising if need - one last thing that has helped me achieve my goals is to be open to the process, learning and changing my strategy if needed. Sometimes, I may have assumptions at the start of my journey that I learn aren't 100% true and I will need to change my approach. Being nimble and adaptive is apart of the process to meeting our goals!
I hope this helps! This approach has helped me complete graduate school, get my first post-college job, move across the country and much more! I know you'll do great with your goals as well :)
Emily Flores Zevallos
photographer and receptionist
2
Answers
York, Pennsylvania
Updated
Emily’s Answer
Hello Samaya! It's a joy to read your words. Remember, it's essential to take pride in the progress you're making each day, growing and learning. It's perfectly normal to feel low at times. We all need to take breaks to recharge our energy and continue our journey. Life can indeed be tough, but during those challenging moments, remind yourself of your WHY. Whether it's driven by passion, compassion, or someone special, there are countless reasons to keep moving forward. I'm sending you lots of love and support. You're capable of amazing things, so never give up!
Best wishes,
Best wishes,
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Consultant and Freelance Writer
751
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Paul’s Answer
Sometimes we can push ourselves too hard to reach an unachievable goal, which is why I do things in achievable increments. Its sort of like setting up higher altitude camps, as you progress up Mount Everest. The higher you go, the more you adapt to the environment, and the more likely you can make a final push to the summit. You cannot really predict time lines. It might take a year, it might take ten years. I always went into my goals with a Growth Mindset. I knew that I would not reach my goals the first day, but witj persistence, hard work, and practice, I knew that I eventually would. How did I know that I reached my goal? It was simple, as defined by the term "Success."
* Success is peace.of mind, in self satisfaction, that you did the best, to become the best, which you are capable."
And only you will be able to determine if you were successful.
* Success is peace.of mind, in self satisfaction, that you did the best, to become the best, which you are capable."
And only you will be able to determine if you were successful.
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1913
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
What a fabulous question which could give you much insight and suggestions on how to overcome those feelings of defeat ! I would like to share an experience I had to add to all the other most useful advice you've received.
Many people perceive that majoring in Theatre, going into acting, is one of those very easy peasy kind of majors. It's not. If you go to a good college for this major, it is very rigorous and very time consuming. My college was like that. I not only had book/reading/literature type requirements, but also practicum requirements, lab work as well as my acting in shows in the community. Plus taking the required courses for my Bachelors degree in other subjects which were advanced placement courses.
In my junior year, I was starting to wonder if this was the major I wanted to stay with. I sort of developed this idea that this major may not be for me, although, acting was my life, but the work in school started getting overwhelming and I was thinking of changing my major to Psychology. There was a professor who knew me in the theatre department and although I wasn't in any of his classes at the time, he took a few minutes to talk with me about this. I can't recall what he said, but whatever it was, it convinced me that what I was feeling was just a momentary glitch and that I should continue with what I was doing and I took his advice and followed through.
Sometimes, it just takes someone very caring, saying the right thing the right way. After that, I seemed to be able to coordinate all of my requirements and schedule so that things became easier and less overwhelming.
Yes, it definitely was worth it because my first job out of college was in my major. I than continued with it for about 12 or 13 years and than transitioned into a different field of work, but than transitioned recently back to acting. So yes, you have to make the decision but it greatly helps to have supports that care enough to pick you up when you feel down.
Many people perceive that majoring in Theatre, going into acting, is one of those very easy peasy kind of majors. It's not. If you go to a good college for this major, it is very rigorous and very time consuming. My college was like that. I not only had book/reading/literature type requirements, but also practicum requirements, lab work as well as my acting in shows in the community. Plus taking the required courses for my Bachelors degree in other subjects which were advanced placement courses.
In my junior year, I was starting to wonder if this was the major I wanted to stay with. I sort of developed this idea that this major may not be for me, although, acting was my life, but the work in school started getting overwhelming and I was thinking of changing my major to Psychology. There was a professor who knew me in the theatre department and although I wasn't in any of his classes at the time, he took a few minutes to talk with me about this. I can't recall what he said, but whatever it was, it convinced me that what I was feeling was just a momentary glitch and that I should continue with what I was doing and I took his advice and followed through.
Sometimes, it just takes someone very caring, saying the right thing the right way. After that, I seemed to be able to coordinate all of my requirements and schedule so that things became easier and less overwhelming.
Yes, it definitely was worth it because my first job out of college was in my major. I than continued with it for about 12 or 13 years and than transitioned into a different field of work, but than transitioned recently back to acting. So yes, you have to make the decision but it greatly helps to have supports that care enough to pick you up when you feel down.
Neha Singh
Data Engineer
2
Answers
San Jose, California
Updated
Neha’s Answer
That's an insightful query, Samaya!
I was compelled to take a lengthy hiatus from my professional life due to health complications, which hindered my ability to chase my career aspirations. I explored various alternatives, faced numerous rejections, and often had to settle for any job that came my way. However, I never lost hope. Remember, it's never too late to start anew. This was the moment I resolved to pursue a Masters in Data Analytics. Being 40 years old and juggling family duties, I wasn't sure if I could withstand the academic rigor. Yet, I mustered the courage and completed the course with distinction. Currently, I'm employed in a fantastic company and I can confidently say that every ounce of effort I put in was absolutely worthwhile.
I was compelled to take a lengthy hiatus from my professional life due to health complications, which hindered my ability to chase my career aspirations. I explored various alternatives, faced numerous rejections, and often had to settle for any job that came my way. However, I never lost hope. Remember, it's never too late to start anew. This was the moment I resolved to pursue a Masters in Data Analytics. Being 40 years old and juggling family duties, I wasn't sure if I could withstand the academic rigor. Yet, I mustered the courage and completed the course with distinction. Currently, I'm employed in a fantastic company and I can confidently say that every ounce of effort I put in was absolutely worthwhile.
Ramya M
1
Answer
Santa Clara, California
Updated
Ramya’s Answer
Hello,
I've found that as you get closer to a large task, it often seems less daunting. So, dive in and remember, quitting isn't an option. Here are some strategies I've used:
1. Divide the task into SMART goals. These are goals that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-Bound.
2. While discussing your plans with others can be beneficial, it's important to only absorb the positive feedback and ignore the negative. To avoid judgment, I try to keep my plans to myself as much as possible.
3. I set aside specific blocks of time to focus on important tasks.
4. I create flowcharts to help me visualize the next steps in my process.
These strategies have helped me stay focused and productive. I hope they can do the same for you.
I've found that as you get closer to a large task, it often seems less daunting. So, dive in and remember, quitting isn't an option. Here are some strategies I've used:
1. Divide the task into SMART goals. These are goals that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-Bound.
2. While discussing your plans with others can be beneficial, it's important to only absorb the positive feedback and ignore the negative. To avoid judgment, I try to keep my plans to myself as much as possible.
3. I set aside specific blocks of time to focus on important tasks.
4. I create flowcharts to help me visualize the next steps in my process.
These strategies have helped me stay focused and productive. I hope they can do the same for you.
Kevin P Hust, MBA
Risk Administration and Army Officer
201
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Kevin P’s Answer
Samaya, I have what I comically call the opposite of commitment issues. When I commit, it’s 110%. There is nothing less. So for me, I jump at a goal (when that goal has a target end) and sacrifice alot to achieve it.
What I struggle with is goals that have no end date no target to strive for. Saying things like “I’ll be a better person” or “I’ll eat better” are not clear enough for me to really care about.
Couple goals I’ve had was running a half marathon, understanding stocks enough to invest in them, and getting a masters degree. I have easier goals as well, goals that I can accomplish in a few days.
That was what got me started on this trend. Accomplishing small goals that then turn into a desire to accomplish a bigger goal. For me it was always a domino effect. One let to the next to the next.
I’ve never had a goal NOT be worth achieving. I always learned something that made it worth it. If anything, I learned not to do that again. I ended up running over 40 half marathons. I have a healthy investment portfolio. And have an MBA.
It starts with one step and then another. And then before you know it. You’re on top of the hill.
What I struggle with is goals that have no end date no target to strive for. Saying things like “I’ll be a better person” or “I’ll eat better” are not clear enough for me to really care about.
Couple goals I’ve had was running a half marathon, understanding stocks enough to invest in them, and getting a masters degree. I have easier goals as well, goals that I can accomplish in a few days.
That was what got me started on this trend. Accomplishing small goals that then turn into a desire to accomplish a bigger goal. For me it was always a domino effect. One let to the next to the next.
I’ve never had a goal NOT be worth achieving. I always learned something that made it worth it. If anything, I learned not to do that again. I ended up running over 40 half marathons. I have a healthy investment portfolio. And have an MBA.
It starts with one step and then another. And then before you know it. You’re on top of the hill.
Lainie Frost
Director of Creative Marketing Content Operations
4
Answers
Washington, Washington
Updated
Lainie’s Answer
First thing to know is that you're not alone and that you'll be asking yourself this question throughout your life since your goals will continue to evolve.
Regarding what drove me to want a particular goal -- I made long-term goals, but prioritized my short-term goals. I found that if I mostly focused on long-term goals then I would have missed opportunities along the way that took me wonderful places in my personal life and in my career I could have never imagined for myself.
Reaching these short-term goals involved a lot of Post-it notes! It seems old school, but there's something about writing weekly tasks to help reach a short-term goal and then crossing those items off the list. And then eventually just getting rid of the entire Post-it note :-)
The times I reached my short-term goals I certainly felt satisfaction in the achievement, but there were times that I didn't live in the present and appreciate the journey because I was so focused on the outcome.
I hope this helps!
Regarding what drove me to want a particular goal -- I made long-term goals, but prioritized my short-term goals. I found that if I mostly focused on long-term goals then I would have missed opportunities along the way that took me wonderful places in my personal life and in my career I could have never imagined for myself.
Reaching these short-term goals involved a lot of Post-it notes! It seems old school, but there's something about writing weekly tasks to help reach a short-term goal and then crossing those items off the list. And then eventually just getting rid of the entire Post-it note :-)
The times I reached my short-term goals I certainly felt satisfaction in the achievement, but there were times that I didn't live in the present and appreciate the journey because I was so focused on the outcome.
I hope this helps!
Mudita Lionheart 🪄🔥
Employer Partnerships Manager
7
Answers
Portland, Oregon
Updated
Mudita’s Answer
Hello, Samaya!
Fantastic inquiry! I've got a handful of strategies that have proven successful for me in the past that I'd love to share.
Initially, I make it a point to understand thoroughly the reasons behind my desire to accomplish a particular goal. I strive to connect deeply with the inherent motivation that fuels my ambition. In the past, these motivations have ranged from improving the lives of my children, to the satisfaction of knowing I'm utilizing my natural talents for the betterment of society, or the peace of mind that comes with a boosted income and the assurance of financial stability.
Next, I evaluate the possible sacrifices I may have to make to attain my goal, always keeping my core motivation at the forefront. I identify what I need to prioritize, enabling me to decline anything that may divert my focus from my goal.
Finally, I seek support! This can take various forms - from creating an inspiring environment at home or work with motivational visuals, to discovering apps or resources that can assist in maintaining my focus, to reaching out to individuals who I know will champion my aspirations and asking for their assistance. I also encourage these individuals to join me in celebrating my small wins and guiding me through any obstacles I may encounter along the journey.
With appreciation,
Fantastic inquiry! I've got a handful of strategies that have proven successful for me in the past that I'd love to share.
Initially, I make it a point to understand thoroughly the reasons behind my desire to accomplish a particular goal. I strive to connect deeply with the inherent motivation that fuels my ambition. In the past, these motivations have ranged from improving the lives of my children, to the satisfaction of knowing I'm utilizing my natural talents for the betterment of society, or the peace of mind that comes with a boosted income and the assurance of financial stability.
Next, I evaluate the possible sacrifices I may have to make to attain my goal, always keeping my core motivation at the forefront. I identify what I need to prioritize, enabling me to decline anything that may divert my focus from my goal.
Finally, I seek support! This can take various forms - from creating an inspiring environment at home or work with motivational visuals, to discovering apps or resources that can assist in maintaining my focus, to reaching out to individuals who I know will champion my aspirations and asking for their assistance. I also encourage these individuals to join me in celebrating my small wins and guiding me through any obstacles I may encounter along the journey.
With appreciation,
Michelle Shields
Learning Science
11
Answers
Colorado Springs, Colorado
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hi Samya, this is a great questions. I want to start by saying i feel it is important not to just meet a goal because you set it. Life is constantly changing and goals and needs change too. It's okay to say something is no longer a goal for you or to reprioritize things. With that in mind I then like to deeply consider the why or motivation for working towards this goal. Specifically gains, and potential challenges.
I then try to continuously remind myself of the why.
For example, in college I had to take some elective credits and these were courses I was not passionate about. It was hard to push through and work hard in those classes- However I would remind myself that this is for the bigger goal, getting my degree and its a stepping stone to get there. This helped me become re-motivated to keep working through the classes.
I also suggest taking time to look back at the progress you have mad towards the goal when things start to feel hard. Its easy to loose track of the forward progress we have made as we tend to just see how far we have left to go.
I then try to continuously remind myself of the why.
For example, in college I had to take some elective credits and these were courses I was not passionate about. It was hard to push through and work hard in those classes- However I would remind myself that this is for the bigger goal, getting my degree and its a stepping stone to get there. This helped me become re-motivated to keep working through the classes.
I also suggest taking time to look back at the progress you have mad towards the goal when things start to feel hard. Its easy to loose track of the forward progress we have made as we tend to just see how far we have left to go.
madhuri latha prathikantam
Data Engineer
4
Answers
Dublin, California
Updated
madhuri latha’s Answer
Hi Samaya, it's fantastic to see you taking the initiative and using resources like CareerVillage to stay on track. Your passion and determination are key to your success. Remember, complacency can be a roadblock, so keep pushing towards your goals.
Having a clear vision of your destination and understanding what achievement means to you are crucial. Strive for impact and stay motivated, and you'll find yourself constantly moving forward. Trust me, when you start seeing the fruits of your labor, the thought of giving up will vanish.
Keep setting short-term and long-term goals and work persistently towards them. Once you have these goals in place, you'll find it difficult to settle for anything less.
Having a clear vision of your destination and understanding what achievement means to you are crucial. Strive for impact and stay motivated, and you'll find yourself constantly moving forward. Trust me, when you start seeing the fruits of your labor, the thought of giving up will vanish.
Keep setting short-term and long-term goals and work persistently towards them. Once you have these goals in place, you'll find it difficult to settle for anything less.
Leticia Santoyo
Head of Marketing
4
Answers
London, England, United Kingdom
Updated
Leticia’s Answer
Hello there! The practice of crafting roadmaps has proven to be incredibly beneficial. It's important to have a clear vision of your destination, establish key milestones with tentative timelines, and ensure that these milestones are both pertinent and attainable. Don't let a winding path discourage you; the journey may not always be linear. Harness your creativity to pinpoint and pursue the resources necessary to reach your goals.
Juanita Brown
Vendor operations specialist
21
Answers
Apopka, Florida
Updated
Juanita’s Answer
This is easy, I just remember what the ultimate goal is. Despite feeling tired and sometimes discouraged, I think of ways that things could be worse and then I realize that if I don't make things happen for myself no one will. It's okay to be tired, discouraged, confused even but remember it is temporary! Take time to for yourself to regroup and bounce back! Keep a journal of your goals and continue to knock them out one by one, and also take time to reflect on where you've come from. That way you have a constant reminder of what it looks like to keep going!
Amalya Sukiasyan
ESOL teacher at Washington English Center
297
Answers
Yerevan
Updated
Amalya’s Answer
Most people have goals, but not all of them reach them since only the strongest are able not to give up till the end. Dedication, determination, optimism and resilience help one achieve the dreams and add value to life. Never give up and keep going!
Danny Chan
Business Operations
4
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Danny’s Answer
The power to ignite your motivation lies within you! Think about the ultimate goal you're striving for - could it be financial stability? Or maybe it's about taking care of your loved ones? When I ponder over the bigger picture and the difference I can make, it fuels my desire to triumph.
Keep in mind - the path to success isn't always smooth, but that doesn't mean you're prepared to throw in the towel.
Keep in mind - the path to success isn't always smooth, but that doesn't mean you're prepared to throw in the towel.