Do you want to find the key to unlock your dreams? Self-Awareness can be that key. We are often taught to set specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, time-bound goals. This is great, but most of the time we miss the massive benefit we can get from the goal-setting process itself.

The process laid out below could be life changing for you. It is a simple exercise with the potential to change your life’s trajectory for the better. Before we get started I am asking you to stop judging yourself in anyway during this exercise. I know this is easier said than done, but I believe that all of us are so much more valuable and capable that we believe.

Set a new goal this week. Make it a big goal. Something realistic, but something that would stretch you way beyond where you think you are right now. As you go through the process below, just watch what your mind thinks as you take each step. Don’t judge any of the thoughts that come up. Just ask yourself inquisitive questions about the thoughts that come up. If you experience any strong emotions dont push away or move just sit and feel them. It doesn’t matter if they are positive or negative just notice them and ask yourself questions, like you are asking the universe and expecting an answer. Questions like, where did that thought come from? Can I remember a time in my life that might have shaped that thought? Just sit with the emotions of the thoughts. Don’t push them down if they are negative, and don’t get carried away with excitement if they are positive. Just notice the emotions and make note of them.

The Goal Setting Process

Find a quiet place where you won’t be interrupted. Write down your goal in a sentence.

Next make a short list of what you think that goal would provide you. You might think it would bring you financial security or happiness. Maybe It would make you feel valued or respected. Really think through what this goal would bring you and write out.

Now visualize what a day in your life would like once you have achieved the goal. Spend at least five or so minutes really imagining what that would look like.

Next write down the first five tasks you will need to complete to go towards the goal.

Then start doing the tasks. This really the time to be present and aware of your thoughts.

Reflection

This exercise is the first step in a massive life change. As we are trying to reach our goals we often sabotage ourselves, because limiting beliefs come up. Our mind gives us all the reasons we can’t succeed. A few people will get incredibly positive beliefs that they are going to achieve the goal without a hitch. Then when it doesn’t go their way, they are discouraged. The absolute power in this exercise is the realization that you are not your thoughts, you are the person who notices them. Your thoughts and beliefs have come from all the past experiences in your life, and how you reacted to them. Your beliefs are all your confirmations for, or rebellion against your experiences and what you were taught. They don’t define you, and you can sit with them, notice them, not judge them, and they will eventually pass. The number one takeaway is that these thoughts can’t keep your from your dreams if you don’t let them. If you realize you are the one watching them, not the one having them. Take action, and enjoy the process.