Use the WOOP strategy for achieving goals:

• Wish: What do you dream of achieving in the future?
• Outcome: What form will that result take?
• Obstacles: What’s in the way?
• Plan: When that obstacle comes what wil...

Everything starts with a wish. But don't transform that into fantasy.

When you fantasize, your brain thinks you’ve actually achieved your goal. So rather than ramping up, motivation dials back.

Be specific about the form your wish should take.

For example: If a "better work-life balance" is your wish, your outcome  could be “No work on weekends."

You need to deliberately think about the obstacles that might prevent you from achieving the outcome.

This might also help you realize if your goals are actually realistic and worth pursuing.

The best way to make sure your plan addresses your obstacles is by using the planning strategy called "implementation intentions."

It uses "If-Then” responses to known stumbling blocks:  “If ____ happens, then I will _____.”