Have you ever been so fixated on reaching a goal that you end up burning yourself out trying to reach it? Whether it’s starting a business, aiming for a promotion at work, or achieving a health target, obsessing over the outcome can lead to frustration and demotivation.

But what if there’s a more enjoyable way to reach your goals? In this article, find out how to focus on the PROCESS vs. the OUTCOME so you can enjoy the journey toward future-you every day… instead of waiting for that ONE magic day when you finally reach your goals.

P.S. Prefer to listen? Check out Episode 50 of the Bright Life Podcast: Are You Focusing on the PROCESS or the OUTCOME?

Focus on Process vs Outcome to Reach Your Goals

Instead of solely concentrating on the end result, embrace the process of who you are becoming instead. When you’re solely fixated on the desired outcome, it can feel distant and unattainable. And if you fall short of your goal, it’s easy to beat yourself up and lose motivation. By concentrating on the journey and setting up daily milestones that you CAN control, you’ll experience a sense of accomplishment every step of the way. This perspective allows you to enjoy each moment on the way to your goal, instead of waiting for that one magical day when all finally falls into place.

If it’s a big goal, you likely have months (or maybe years) before your dream comes true. Why wish away every day until you reach your major milestone. Instead…

Celebrate Successes Often

Focusing on the process means acknowledging and celebrating the small successes that bring you closer to your ultimate goal. Sure, maybe you want the $10K months in business, but getting your first customer is still a huge victory that should be celebrated. Or, maybe you want to lose 10 pounds, but by celebrating your first 5, you make it more fun to keep going. The small victories build momentum and contribute to your overall success.

Focus on What You Can Control Each Day

By setting achievable daily tasks, you’ll experience a continuous sense of accomplishment and confidence every day along the way. Imagine waking up each day feeling empowered, knowing you’re making progress and becoming a better version of yourself.

Rather than obsessing over the final outcome, concentrate on the actions and efforts you can control on a DAILY basis. Break down your goal into manageable tasks and focus on doing your best each day. Maybe that means reaching out to a certain number of potential customers each day, defining a few healthy habits you can check off each morning, or making a list of logistics for a trip. Showing up consistently and putting in your best effort DAILY is how you start to see the massive compounds LONG-TERM.

Get Excited About the Journey

Embrace excitement and anticipation for when you reach your goal. While the end goal may be distant, you can still find joy in the steps that lead you there. Plan exciting activities, visualize your progress, and take tangible steps to bring your vision to life. Whether it’s saving money for a dream trip or making progress in your business, picture yourself as having achieved your dream. The more vividly you can see each and every day, the more tuned into you will be to making it a reality.

Treat Yourself at Mini Milestones

Acknowledge your efforts and celebrate milestones as you progress towards your goal. Treat yourself for reaching certain milestones, whether it’s a small reward or a moment of self-appreciation. Celebrating your achievements keeps you motivated and reinforces the positive aspects of the journey until you reach your outcome.

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By adopting this approach of focusing more on the PROCESS than the OUTCOME, you’ll find that reaching your goals becomes a fulfilling and enjoyable experience. In reaching any goal, it’s who you become—even more than what you achieve—that is the true reward.

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P.S. Want more on this topic? Check out How to Reach Your Goals (the Easier Way and What You’re Doing Now Will Serve You Later (How to Make the Most of the Season You’re In).