As successful people and life coaches have repeatedly emphasised, having clearly defined goals is essential for bringing out your inner boss. It requires grit; it’s not as easy as we would like to think; and it’s easier said than done. We know this because, despite knowing it’s best to start the day early, more often than not, the snooze button becomes our best friend.

Don’t worry, the end is not yet near. To recognise World Mental Health Week, we’re providing daily tips that are easy to follow and will guide you toward well-being and achieving your full potential.

Write your goals down

Even the Bible mentions the importance of goal-setting. The first step to making your dream a reality is to write down your goals. Writing helps you think more clearly, so you can design, develop, and execute a strategy that you can then implement to achieve your dreams.

Remember, there are different routes available to everyone, and, as Jamaicans, we’ve learnt that “puss and dog nuh have di same luck” (what works for you may not work for someone else), so keep that in mind.

Set your intentions

Start small with three simple intentions—one personal, one professional, and recreational.

A personal goal: Is there anything you could do that would improve your mental, spiritual, emotional, physical, or financial health? After giving your ideas some thought, write them down.

A work-related goal: Is your goal to start your own company or to get ready for a management position? Are you happy with your current situation? Setting a timer for 20 minutes and jotting down all your thoughts will prepare your mind to start working on a solution.

A recreational goal: When was the last time you did something just for fun? Consider the group trip that you’ve been putting off and plan for the next date.

Once you’ve written all three goals down, like we suggested yesterday, you can check in during the day to centre yourself in the present and be reminded of your goals. When you achieve them, cross them off the list at the end of the day. It will motivate you to stay on track.

Don’t be too hard on yourself if you end the day behind schedule; keep in mind that there are numerous outside factors to consider as well. For instance, our recent transition to post-pandemic status following COVID-19 was a setback for the entire world. If, however, at the end of the week, your goals are still unmet, consider finding an accountability partner who can help you clarify issues that may seem insurmountable to you.

We’ll be back tomorrow with another valuable daily mental health tip!

– TAMEKA A COLEY