Day 5: Go public

When you are clear about your goal, you can increase your commitment to it in a number of ways.  One way is:

Tip 5:  Make a public declaration of your goal

This tip works in two ways.  First, by telling others about your goal you put yourself on centre stage.  People will now ask you about your progress or offer to help you in some way.  You know you are now answerable to them, and that in itself can keep your commitment up.  Secondly, when you hear yourself say your goal out loud to someone else, have a listen to your own 'inner voice'.  It is often at the point of telling others about your goal that you realise whether or not you really mean it.  (I remember the during first job interview I had after graduating, having to answer the question 'Where do you see yourself in 5 years time?' and answering 'Running this factory', and even in that moment I knew that wasn't what I really wanted, but I thought it was the right thing to say).

Making a public declaration of your goals doesn't mean climbing to the top of the highest building and shouting from the rooftops for the whole world to hear.  Pick some close colleagues and friends who you think will encourage you in your progress towards your goal.  (We will talk more about support later in the month).

Note:  A great book on the topic of your inner voice is 'The Inner Game of Tennis' by Timothy Gallwey. He talks about using it to heighten your self awareness and using it as a power for aiding you rather than one that gives you harsh judgement when you fail.