Whatever we aim to achieve, it usually takes time. Over time, other things distract us, get in the way, trip us up, block our path, challenge us...
What we need to keep us going through the seeming minefield of obstacles is TREATS. Well planned TREATS tempt us onwards with a taste of what's to come. TREATS help us to keep focussed on our aim. And they are fun.
We can all remember as kids being offered TREATS as incentives to achieve something. I vividly recall, as a child, the sudden promise of sixpence (the price of a large chocolate bar, back then) during a swimming lesson. That transformed my terror of the water into a determination that got me swimming my first length of the pool.
We can use TREATS to regain the boundless energy and enthusiasm of a child in whatever we are aiming to achieve. Every plan of action should always include TREATS to be enjoyed as each milestone is reached.
For example, suppose we are aiming to increase our income or switch to a more satisfying career. The big TREAT at the end could be a winter holiday in the sun, say in Spain. We'll be able to afford it, right? Little TREATS along the way could be visits to a Spanish restaurant, see a Spanish film at the cinema, buying new clothes for the trip...
Whenever the going seems to get tough, we can keep going by focussing on the TREAT that awaits us instead of how difficult things seem. But there are three rules.
- First, we must give the task our very best shot.
- Second, having completed the task, we must always keep our promise to ourselves and deliver the TREAT.
- The third rule is to enjoy the treat with relish. Make it a real celebration and congratulate yourself for having earned your reward.
Speaking of TREATS, I hope you did not miss the one that's waiting for you in the previous post about Harmony.
*****
TREATS help us to take action and keep moving forwards to success in our aims. But there is something else that keeps making us RETREAT. Next, we will take a look at what that is and what we can do about it.
This post is part of "An A to Z for Success". See the side panel on the right for an index.