For example, if you are good at drawing, consider careers in visual design. If you are good at writing, think about how you can leverage that in your own career. That doesn’t necessarily mean that you should commit yourself to being a novelist or an artist, which can be difficult careers. But you should consider other careers that utilize these skills, like advertising, architecture, interior design, or law.

Part of this will consist of setting up a daily schedule. If she committed 3 hours a day to work, ask how can you do the same. Will you need to cut out Television from your schedule or severely limit it to a certain amount of time per day? You will only know if you do the math. [3] X Research source

Determine the steps necessary to achieve each life goal. For example, to get into a reputable law school, you must first complete an undergraduate degree with a high grade point average. Then, you’ll need a high score on the Law School Admissions Test (LSAT). You’ll then apply to a list of carefully selected reputable law schools. Break down each large goal into smaller steps. For example, applying to reputable law schools will require that you submit reference letters, write a personal statement, and detail any experience in a law office. Identifying these smaller steps early on helps you be proactive in establishing relationships with professors who can write you letters of recommendation before you graduate. Similarly, you can begin planning to find a part-time summer job in a law office during your undergraduate years. Create a plan for addressing obstacles and personal challenges. For example, if your goal is to marry and have a family, but you can’t find a romantic partner because you struggle with shyness, you might ask friends to introduce you to people, push yourself to attend social activities, or consult with a relationship counselor.

Reflect on your personal needs. In addition to the physical needs of staying fed, sheltered and healthy, consider your mental, emotional and spiritual needs as you work to achieve something in life. The need to feel respected, mentally stimulated, challenged and loved are vital factors for sustaining motivation. [6] X Expert Source Kirsten Parker, MFAMindset & Action Coach Expert Interview. 22 July 2020. Remain constantly aware of the outcomes of your work. Verify that your goals foster your motivation. For example, the chances of building a loving family are much greater if you choose a life partner who makes you feel loved and respected, and encourages you to pursue your life goals.

This was proven in the classic marshmallow experiment, where children were promised two marshmallows if they could hold themselves back from eating a single marshmallow for fifteen minutes. Those who delayed the gratification to receive two marshmallows went on to have higher SAT scores, better health, and a lower risk of substance abuse. Follow up studies demonstrated that if children reliably received rewards when they delayed gratification, they would be better able to do so. [8] X Research source

Seinfeld, for example, argues that the key to his success was to sit down and write some jokes every day. It wasn’t about periods of intense, highly motivated activity, but rather a devoted, consistent habit. [10] X Research source Some people recommend finishing up your most important or difficult task at the very beginning of the day. If you do that, you will have momentum and your difficult tasks won’t intimidate you into procrastination. [11] X Research source

Practice socializing, even if it just saying “hello” or “thank you” to someone you meet in public. Watch how people who are popular act to determine what they do that attracts other people. Similarly, watch how people respond to you to see what does and does not work. [13] X Research source

To exude confidence, stand up straight with your shoulders back and chest out. Project your voice to sound strong. Make eye contact when you talk to someone. [16] X Research source Exercise to look and feel strong. [17] X Research source

While authenticity can be a powerful asset, you shouldn’t allow yourself to be held back by your inability to change. Instead embrace an evolving sense of authenticity: the idea that the authentic you is someone you are becoming, not someone you were. [19] X Trustworthy Source Harvard Business Review Online and print journal covering topics related to business management practices Go to source