There's definitely an art to planning. And we'll get into that in this episode. But here’s the thing everyone forgets to tell you about planning: The real trick is actually not in making the plan. The real trick is in sticking to the plan you’ve made. We'll talk about why that is so darned hard--and how to get better at following through on your plans.

Key Takeaways

1. Planning provides structure, focus, and accountability. Without a plan, it's too easy for your goals and intentions to get lost in the shuffle of daily life.
2. Having contingency plans allows you to adapt when obstacles arise, maintaining momentum and flexibility.
3. Remember to be kind to your future self when making plans. Create plans that include not only productive tasks but also rest, relaxation, and treats.
4. Even if your plans are not perfect, the act of sticking to them anyway (until you can adjust them) reinforces your identity as someone who keeps their commitments–even to themselves.

Mentioned
- Episode #138: Why goals are not always enough

- Have a nagging question or a problem you’re running up against, or just something you’ve noticed and want to share? Send an email or leave a voicemail and I’ll discuss it (anonymously) in a future episode.

- Learn more about the Weighless Program

Interested in having Monica present at your next live or virtual event? Learn more.

Being curious about our experiences (both internal and external) really is key to unlocking our progress and potential. But to be honest, it’s a tricky one.

Certain mental reactions often masquerade as genuine curiosity. In this episode, you'll learn to recognize these imposters and pivot instead to the kind of inquiry that actually moves you forward instead of leaving you stuck in the same old repeating patterns.

Key Takeaways

1. The goal of curiosity is less about explaining what happened and more about exploring what might happen next.
2. Don't be in a rush to get to "the answer." By slowing down the process we can access information that might not be immediately apparent.
3. When we need something to be a certain way, it’s hard to see what it actually is.
4. The partner to curiosity is flexibility, looking for multiple ways to pursue an outcome. (Chances are, you'll need them all eventually).
5. Not everything will work but, if we can be curious, everything can contribute to your success.

Mentioned

Learn more about the Weighless Program

Have a nagging question or a problem you’re running up against, or just something you’ve noticed and want to share? Send an email or leave a voicemail and I'll discuss it (anonymously) in a future episode

Interested in having Monica present at your next live or virtual event? Learn more.

I'm betting you aspire to a future life that is at least a little bit better than it is now—perhaps you'll be a bit healthier, less stressed, more content. You're working towards a future in which you have achieved certain goals or milestones.

What we don't always realize (or fully acknowledge) is that the choices we make today, the actions we do or do not take, are actually creating that future. For better or worse. Let’s make sure that Future You doesn’t look back at today’s choices with regret.

Key Takeaways

1. Stop waiting for the "perfect time" to start working towards your goals – resolve to begin today.
2. Remember that obstacles and challenges are part of life's fabric, not temporary disruptions. Learn to progress despite them.
3. Be aware of how often you prioritize others' needs over your own goals and the impact this may have on your life's trajectory.
4. Commit to taking action, even if you're unsure of the perfect first step. Action often leads to clarity.
5. Be willing to tolerate the discomfort of developing new skills or habits, rather than avoiding it and deferring your progress.
6. It's important not to just visualize your end goal, but also the daily effort required to achieve it.

Mentioned

Change Academy #139: Finding your why
Change Academy #106 Why insight isn’t enough
Change Academy #6: The hidden cost of unmet goals

Join us in the Weighless program

Interested in having Monica present at your next live or virtual event? Learn more.