Can you recall a time you set a goal for yourself but you didn’t achieve it? Regardless of whether you wrote it as a SMART goal, there’s a specific reason you didn’t reach your goal.
Let’s assume for the sake of this article that the goal is something you really wanted, like learning to play a musical instrument. If you didn’t achieve this goal, it would be easy to assume it’s because you didn’t have adequate time. However, we all have the exact same 1,440 minutes every day. If you wanted it badly enough, you would have made time for it, right?
There are lots of reasons people give for not achieving the goals they set for themselves. So what differentiates the person who achieves their dreams?
In simple terms, your goal setter (conscious mind) must be aligned with your goal getter (unconscious mind). If the unconscious mind isn’t on board with your goal, you will be unmotivated and face resistance. Let me explain this concept using an example.
The failed workout routine
Several years ago, before I was married, I decided to start a new workout routine. I was inspired by my aunt who had a wonderful habit of swimming every weekday morning at 5:30 am. I wanted to feel as energized as she did in the morning.
To successfully reach my new goal, I knew I needed to pack my swim bag before bed to make it easier in the morning. The next morning, when my alarm clock went off at 5:30 am, I managed to get myself out of bed and to the pool. Success! But getting changed into my swimsuit was colder than I’d imagined and jumping into the pool took my breathe away. I did one lap in the swimming pool and then made a beeline for the change room.
I should have felt energized, but instead I was miserable and cold. That first swim was the end of my new morning routine. Why had I failed at achieving the goal I set for myself?
The power of the unconscious mind
My goal was made with my conscious (goal-setting) mind, however, my unconscious (goal-getting) mind wasn’t in agreement. There was nothing about this experiment that my unconscious mind wanted for me. Swimming made me feel miserable and cold, not warm and cozy like my bed.
Some might say I lacked the willpower to change my morning routine. In reality, two parts of my mind were in conflict. They didn’t agree on what was best for me. My conscious mind understood the logic, but the unconscious mind doesn't think this way. It was concerned with my survival, my desires, my feelings and emotions.
As a coach, I work with my clients to uncover mental blocks like this. I ask probing questions that allow my clients to discover why their goal-getting mind is not in alignment with their goal-setting mind. Often within one session, we’re able to determine what the unconscious mind is resisting. Once we identify this limiting belief or judgement, things begin to shift and the client is able to move forward with ease.
What goal would you like to achieve? If you haven't been able to make progress towards your goal, what is it that your unconscious mind is telling you through your feelings and internal thoughts?
Sarah Doyle is a Certified Leadership Coach, communication consultant, facilitator and speaker. She helps individuals discover their strengths, build confidence and work toward achieving their professional goals.
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