Almost every conversation I’m engaged in or overhear contains a large number of “I wants…” within. I can’t help but notice that the vast majority of those wants remain unfulfilled for most people. I hear people say that they want to earn more money, but do very little, if anything, to earn more. I hear others say that they want to lose 10 pounds, but the weight stays velcro’ed to their waistlines. I hear many say they want to find a better more-fulfilling job, but those same folks don’t go on interviews.
I believe what is missing for most people is “all in” commitment. The answer is to convert your average “I want…” to “I must…”
Abraham Lincoln observed:
Commitment is what transforms a promise into reality.
A great start to get this “all in” level of commitment is to write down your goal, in specific, measurable, concrete terms, and then clearly summarize in one or two sentences why this goal is important, now. The “why” behind a goal is crucial. Finally, a goal is nothing but dreamy, wishful thinking without a target date, so decide “by when” and write that down as well. Start right away, without delay.
What if you decided that you must lose 10 pounds this month, not someday in the future? How would you approach things differently that you do now?
The iMUST method works if you concentrate and focus your attention and energy — having a dozen initiatives at the same time divides your focus and energy, and is a recipe for failure. I suggest pale ink and a little always-in-your-pocket logbook to help keep your focus and your memory accurate. If your iMUST goal this month is to lose weight, write down every calorie that you eat, jot down whenever you successfully choose the heart-healthy entree instead of the usual, accurately note your exercise achievements, and track your weekly progress.
Upgrade your attitude to iMUST. Commit, and you can and will accomplish your goals.
I.M. OptimismMan
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