Use Your Brain To Master Your Goal

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We all have goals. Merriam-Webster defines a goal as "the end toward which effort is directed: AIM." I personally define a goal as anything and everything we strive to achieve. I'm pleased that Merriam and I see eye to eye on this. It doesn't matter if your aim is small or big – whether it's starting a business, completing school, daily gym visits, grocery shopping, meal prepping, or even taking your kids to school. All of these are considered goals.

A bit of repetition here but thats okay it's good for the brain. A goal, in essence, is an intention to do something, and the size of the goal doesn't matter. Whether it's significant or minor, obstacles are inevitable in our pursuit of these objectives.

This sorry saga of stress, obstacles, and roadblocks is like a stubborn GPS that refuses to reroute. Well, until God's day comes. The only thing we can do is navigate these obstacles and manage the stressors that threaten our beautiful progress.

The most effective approach that I have personally used supports the brain's goal setting hierarchy. This doesn't entail the entire brain, given its vastness, but rather, it's about working with its key components.

1. We collaborate with the emotional brain, responsible for our anxiety levels.

2. We support the part of our brain overseeing our feel-good hormones—oxytocin, dopamine, serotonin, and endorphins.

3. We working with the section of our brain responsible for executive functioning, planning, organization, self-control, and impulse is crucial.

Yes, we can harness our brain's natural capabilities to achieve all our desires. It's a matter of providing support. The more we nurture our brain's inherent abilities, the easier it becomes to overcome mental, emotional, or physical obstacles that restrict us from greatness.

Begin by taking the brief quiz below to gauge how well you support your brain during the goal-setting process. And always remember, the more intentionally you assist your brain, the smoother it will operate. It's akin to a car – when low on gas, the ride is bumpy. Fill up the tank, and the car runs smoothly.

Quiz: How Well Do You Support Your Brain In The Goal Setting Process

Instructions: Answer the following questions honestly to gain insights into how well your brain is geared towards achieving your goals.

1. Emotional Resilience: How well do you manage stress and anxiety in challenging situations?

• A) Exceptionally well, I thrive under pressure.

• B) I manage reasonably, with occasional stress.

• C) I struggle to cope with stress, and it often affects me.

2. Feel-Good Hormones: How often do you engage in activities that boost your mood, such as socializing, exercising, or pursuing hobbies?

• A) Regularly, I prioritize activities that make me feel good.

• B) Occasionally, but I could do better in making time for them.

• C) Rarely, I often neglect activities that bring joy.

3. Executive Functioning: How organized are you in planning and managing your tasks?

• A) Extremely organized, I have a structured approach to my goals.

• B) Moderately organized, I could improve in certain areas.

• C) Disorganized, I struggle with planning and organization.

4. Self-Control and Impulse: How well do you resist distractions and stay focused on your goals?

• A) Excellently, I have strong self-control and can resist impulses.

• B) Average, I manage well but may succumb to occasional distractions.

• C) Poorly, I often get sidetracked by impulses and distractions.

Scoring:

• For every A, assign 3 points.

• For every B, assign 2 points.

• For every C, assign 1 point.

Results:

• 10-12 points: Your brain is a fortress! You possess strong emotional resilience, engage in activities that boost your mood, and exhibit excellent executive functioning and self-control. Your brain is well-prepared to tackle any obstacles in your goal pursuit.

• 6-9 points: Room for improvement. While your brain shows some strengths, there are areas that could use a bit more support. Focus on enhancing emotional resilience, engaging in mood-boosting activities, and refining your planning and self-control skills.

• 4-6 points: Your brain might need some TLC. There's room for growth in various aspects. Consider implementing strategies to boost emotional resilience, prioritize activities that bring joy, and work on refining your planning and self-control.

Keep in mind, this quiz provides you with self-awareness, and there's always room for growth and development. Use the results as a guide to tailor your approach to achieving your goals effectively.

Your Success Is Up To You,

Love,

Makayla