I used to love Smashing Pumpkins. The band, not the activity. In fact, I had a rather unhealthy obsession with many bands in the ’90s.
Mostly because I wanted to be in a band. I’m a Leo after all -we’re supposed to be on stage!
Naturally, if I was going to be the next bassist in Smashing Pumpkins or some other grunge band, I was going to have to buy a bass guitar and learn how to play it.
So, I did. Got myself a “pre-loved” bass at a New Haven consignment shop which according to the guy who sold it to me, “needed some work.”
19-year-old me didn’t care. I was going to take lessons on that broken-ass bass and be one step closer to my career as a rock star.
So, I did. I took 3-ish lessons from my friend’s brother that summer, practiced when the mood struck, and even brought my ticket to fame up to college in the fall.
Where I would keep learning, practicing, and jamming with other college friends, right?
Um, not exactly. College got college-y and eventually, that guitar took its place next to the empty Boone’s Farm bottles and world’s tiniest fridge.
For many of us, working toward goals feels manageable starting out. Even exciting!
Motivation and excitement give us that extra kick in the ass of enthusiasm and dedication to follow through.
You might’ve felt this way a few weeks ago and now that it’s almost the end of January you’re like “goals schmoals”
Once the novelty wears off and dusting off that guitar to practice feels like a chore, we start finding excuses.
So, what can you do?
Three words: If-Then Planning.
You may have heard of this plan which according to more than 200 studies found if-then planners are about 300% more likely than others to reach their goals.
If-then planning is an easy strategy to plan for chaos and stick to your goals even when life gets life-y.
Why? Because it minimizes decision-making and helps you work through any obstacles that come between you and your objectives.
All you need to do is complete this phrase: “If [something unexpected], then [your response].”
Let’s use a gym example because…obvs.
Intention: Exercise more often.
Specific goal: Workout three times per week.
If-then strategy: IF it is Monday, Wednesday, or Friday, THEN I will go to the morning fitness class.
Alternative plan #1: IF I feel too tired, THEN I will put on my gym clothes and take it easy in class.
Alternative plan #2: IF I have a meeting Monday morning and can’t make class, THEN I will go to a 530 class after work or work out on my own.
By creating a backup plan, you eliminate decision fatigue which saves you time and helps you maintain your habits.
Have you ever tried if-then planning? Don't be 19 y.o. Jen! Reply now and tell me your plan!
Xo J.
PS I was recently interviewed for an online magazine featuring solo entrepreneurs. Check out my business journey HERE
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