Welcome back to Bottles, Boobs, and Feeding Tubes! Today, let's dabble in a little satire to discuss the art of setting and achieving goals while grappling with the unavoidable reality of discipline and consistency. We all have those areas in our lives where we seem to fall short, but who says we can't be the best at being bad? Join me as we explore how to embrace our shortcomings and turn them into a unique kind of success, all while finding real ways to set and achieve goals.
1. Goal Setting: The Grand Illusion
Let's start with goal setting. We all know the drill: set SMART goals, write them down, and visualize success. But who has time for all that? Instead, let's embrace the chaos. Set vague, undefined goals and let the chips fall where they may. After all, isn't spontaneity the spice of life? Why aim for the stars when you can settle for the streetlight? It's all about managing expectations—yours and everyone else's. I laugh at this because this was so me. It was all or nothing but when I would fall, I would fall hard. Literally falling off the curb because I didn't reach the streetlight.
Real Tip: Break Big Goals into Small, Manageable Steps
While embracing the chaos, try breaking your goals into smaller, bite-sized tasks. This makes them less overwhelming and gives you a sense of accomplishment as you check off each step. I started writing my goals down. Some days, weeks and maybe a month I wouldn't achieve a single goal. I stayed consistent in writing my goals every week, crossing off completed tasks.
2. The Discipline Myth
Discipline is overrated. Sure, it helps you achieve goals, but it also requires effort and sacrifice. Why not revel in your lack of discipline? Skip the gym, ignore the alarm, and indulge in that extra slice of cake. Embrace the freedom that comes with zero self-control. You might not reach your goals, but you'll have some great stories to tell. Remember, it's not about the destination, it's about the scenic route filled with delightful distractions. I could totally tell you about my binge eating days. I skipped the gym countless times. I started only to stop again for many years.
Real Tip: Use Rewards to Build Discipline
Instead of forcing yourself into a rigid routine, try using rewards to motivate yourself. Set a small treat for completing a task or reaching a milestone. This way, discipline becomes more about positive reinforcement than self-denial. I made a bet with my husband when I was writing my children's book ABC D is Ability: Getting to know kids with disabilities. Everyday I work out, you have to give me an illustration for the book. I won the bet and started my path to building discipline.
3. Consistency: A Misguided Virtue
Consistency is for people with time and energy to spare. Why bother with a steady routine when you can enjoy the thrill of unpredictability? One day you're a health nut, the next you're binge-watching Netflix with a tub of ice cream. Who says you have to stick to one path? Be a chameleon, changing colors with your whims. Embrace the beauty of inconsistency and let the world marvel at your ever-changing persona. I figured I was great at consistently quitting out on myself so surely I can be great at consistently showing up for myself.
Real Tip: Find Your Non-Negotiables
Identify a few key habits or tasks that you can commit to consistently, no matter what. This creates a foundation of stability while still allowing flexibility in other areas of your life. I found sunrise to be a very rewarding way to start my day. In 2020 I started consistently waking up and sitting outside to greet the day. I was somewhere between burnt out and self discovery.
4. Turning Failures into Fabulousness
Every missed goal and abandoned project is an opportunity for creativity. Turn your failures into fabulousness by rebranding them. Couldn't stick to your diet? You're just exploring the diverse world of culinary delights. Skipped another workout? You're mastering the art of rest and relaxation. Failed to complete that big project? You've discovered the joy of delegation. Celebrate your unique approach to life and let others envy your carefree attitude. Did I mention I failed a lot at this healthy living lifestyle.
Real Tip: Learn from Your Failures
Instead of beating yourself up over setbacks, take a moment to reflect on what went wrong and how you can adjust your approach next time. Failure is a great teacher if you let it be. I found my thing, something that kept me wanting to exercise more than anything. Writing. I have dreamed of writing a book my entire life. It was the thing that did it for me. What is yours?
5. The Art of Minimal Effort
Why put in maximum effort when minimal effort gets you by? Adopt the "good enough" mentality. Half-hearted attempts can still yield results, and you get to keep your sanity. Aim for mediocrity and enjoy the comfort of never having to overexert yourself. Life is about balance, after all, and your lack of ambition is just another form of equilibrium. In true libra fashion I was so out of balance at times.
Real Tip: Prioritize Your Tasks
Focus your minimal effort on the tasks that truly matter and let go of the rest. This ensures that you're still moving forward in important areas without burning out. I used to think if I couldn't accomplish everything right now, then why bother. Classic procrastinating perfectionist.
Conclusion:
At Aurora Maternal & Family Healthcare, we understand that life is a juggling act of bottles, boobs, and feeding tubes. Perfection is a myth, and embracing your shortcomings with a sense of humor is a survival skill. So, go ahead and be the best lacker you can be. Set those vague goals, indulge in inconsistency, and turn failures into fabulousness. And don't forget to incorporate these real tips to help you actually get things done. After all, in the grand scheme of things, being good at being bad might just be your greatest achievement.
Stay fabulous, lackers! And remember, it's not about getting it all right; it's about finding joy in the journey.
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