Empower Your Midlife Journey: The Art of Vision Creation and Goal Setting
As another year is underway, you may already have a waning interest in their New Year's resolutions. You reflected on the past year, acknowledged areas where you want to improve, and set ambitious goals for the future.
While this tradition is well-intentioned, it often leaves people feeling discouraged and disheartened by mid-February. So, what's the secret to making lasting changes and reinventing your life to flourish in midlife? It all starts with a shift in mindset from resolutions to creating a vision and setting goals for how you get there (your future).
Creating a new vision begins with evaluating your identity. What type of persona best describes the person you want to be? This identity is not just about setting goals but redefining who you are and what you stand for. A shift in mindset propels you towards your vision for life. When you think about it, every goal we set is fundamentally about becoming someone different, someone better, someone more aligned with our aspirations.
Your vision is to become a healthier, more active individual. Setting specific health and fitness goals is a crucial step, but it's equally essential to embody the identity of a healthy, active person. You're not just chasing a goal; you're becoming a "fit" person who prioritizes your health, makes mindful choices, and enjoys an active lifestyle.
Your identity, the beliefs you hold about yourself, is the foundation for your goals and vision. When you genuinely believe you are that person, your actions become natural extensions of your identity. You don't just exercise because it's on your to-do list; you do it because it's part of who you are. So, in your journey towards a fulfilling vision, remember that crafting a new identity is the linchpin that makes the entire process more seamless and sustainable.
Here are several tips inspired by Atomic Habits author James Clear and his approach to changing your identity and vision:
Start with Small Votes for YOU: Implement small, manageable habits that align with your desired identity. These microchanges may seem insignificant individually, but they collectively shape your self-image over time.
Focus on Consistency Over Intensity: Focus on consistency with your new habits rather than pushing for immediate, dramatic changes. Consistency reinforces your identity and builds momentum.
Create Identity Statements: Create affirmative "I am" statements that reflect your desired identity. Repeat these statements daily to reinforce your self-image. For example, "I am a healthy and active person."
Surround Yourself: Surround yourself with people who embody the identity you're striving for. Their influence and support can reinforce your commitment to change.
Visualize Your Ideal Self: Spend time visualizing your ideal self, living your desired vision. This mental rehearsal can strengthen your belief in your new identity.
Journal: Write about your progress, reflecting on how your new habits align with your vision. This journaling practice can deepen your connection to your evolving identity. We’ve made it easy for you to create the life of your dreams with our 90-Day Vision Journal.
Learn Continuously: Seek knowledge and skills related to your desired identity. The process of learning and growth reinforces your sense of self.
Embrace Setbacks: Understand that setbacks are a natural part of change. Instead of viewing them as failures, see them as opportunities to refine your identity and vision.
Celebrate Milestones: Acknowledge and celebrate your achievements along the way. Each milestone reinforces your new identity and motivates you to keep moving forward.
Establish a Feedback Loop: This will help you assess your progress and adjust as needed regularly. This continuous improvement cycle helps maintain alignment with your vision.
If you want additional feedback and encouragement, consider our email course. Our year-long Vision Course guides you through setting your vision and weekly exercises to practice living your desires. By the end of the course, you will have done the work to ensure your desired changes stick and can be sustained. Don’t pass up this opportunity to finally live the life you desire, not just think and dream about it!
As a midlife woman, you have the wisdom and experience to make profound life changes. Rather than making fleeting New Year's resolutions, embrace the power of embodying the persona of the identity of an individual who already does the behaviors you desire to do and create a compelling vision for your future. With a clear purpose and the determination to follow your roadmap, you can reinvent your life and flourish in midlife.
Remember, it's not about perfection but progress, and your journey is worth celebrating every step of the way. It requires patience and commitment, and we can help! By implementing these tips and staying true to your desired identity, you can gradually reshape your life in line with your vision.