So there has been a fair amount of talk about using these blogs for some accountability for oneself. If I post what I intend to do or what I stand for through these tubes, then I'm more likely to probably more likely to stick with it. Part of it is probably peer pressure, but the more important aspect is that until you write something down it can sometimes be unclear in your mind. If you don't know what you actually want, there you aren't going do actually do anything about it. Now, I've found that my blog has become more a venue for me to organize my thoughts and causes (extremely valuable in itself), and it hasn't done much to hold me accountable in certain areas.
I've found a website, 43 Things, which fits the bill perfectly. It's quite simple, you create an account and post up to 43 goals. You can set time limits, have mini-blogs for each goal, and encourage others. That's pretty much it. But after starting an account today, I've discovered what an amazing thing it is to sit down and write out all your goals. Now, 43 are quite a few, I'm at 35 or so myself, which forces you to be specific. For instance, travel is quite high on my list, but instead of the vague 'travel the world', I have seven separate goals for regions I'm going to travel around, as well as a few cities I intend to live in.
This has made me realize how important tangible goals are. "Travel the world" will never be ticked off, but "travel through central/south america: at least 5 countries" can. Writing it this way makes it real, and very achievable. Notice how I said 'going to travel' and 'intend to live in'? Before I would've said 'want', but now I've written it down and in doing so firmly deciding it's something I want to do. Plus, trying to think up 43 goals leads to ones I never would've thought of. One of mine is seeing a small show in 10 different countries, which I love, but never would've considered doing if I didn't have a long muse on my goals.
I've long planned and dreamed about what I'm going to do after I graduate. I've gotten more specific, and my plans have changed once or twice, but it always has remained a fantasy. But now it's only 13 months away, and it feels good to write down what I want to do, because it moves from a goal to a plan. I know I recommend many things, but this simple idea is an incredible tool for personal development. Even if you don't get an account, still sit down and write down as many goals as you can, long and short term. Be specific, and also make up new ones. Some people recommend rewards for yourself (such as "if I write that report tonight I'll have a huge bowl of ice cream") but I think the best course is just to take pleasure in the accomplishment and the experience itself.
So I almost copped out and didn't give my username. I mean, I am doing this for me, not for external validation, but I know of at least one person who would've nagged me for it. So: grahamr21.
3 comments:
I don't nag... I ask... repeatedly until I get what I want. There's a difference you know! ;) just kidding.
I made a list too... or am going to throughout the day today. Good use of work time. edge_danielle is my username :) Thanks for showing this sight, very cool.
Excellent post. So many goals are set without a plan to achieve them. I was especially pleased that you point out the value of the journal beyond accountability. Just organizing one's thoughts goes a long way to achieving tangible goals.
This post may not jump out to many as it has for myself. In my opinion, bringing these goals to the forefront not only aids in goal achievement but mental activity. Humans are naturally goal driven. When the mind is left relatively inactive depression can set in. This may be a challenge for certain individuals who also require assistance in maintaining or gaining mind control.
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