Have you ever noticed that personal change is most difficult when we come to the very end of the process? At first things are easy because we are filled with enthusiasm. After a while we get the basics down and then we begin to fine tune our approach. It is only when we begin dealing with the details that we realize how much work is required to reach our goal. However, if we stay steady and maintain composure we will find ourselves at the10 percent. What can we do to be successful with the last 10 percent?
1. Learn to forgive yourself: The biggest barrier to success is lack of forgiveness. If we hold onto the guilt of our past mistakes we cannot break free from the chains of regret. Give yourself grace. Know that you cannot change the past and move on. When you do this you allow positive emotions and a fresh perspective to help you make the right decisions.
2. Anticipate delays: The closer you are to a goal the longer things seem to take. This has to do with both your anxiousness and the fact that you’re now dealing with particulars that have to be accounted for. Be sure that you aren’t rushing the process and you allot time for each important step. A delay is not a denial and might be a good time to catch your breath.
3. Steady your emotions: This is probably the most critical issue we have when it comes to meeting our goals or not. Emotions have the ability to strengthen and empower us or they can tear us down from the inside. If we naturally tend to be an emotional person, then when it comes to making an important decision, we can let our emotions get the better of us. In order to steady your emotions simply focus on the task at hand. There’s no sense in being overwhelmed by the gravity of the situation. Do things one step at a time and build your confidence with each victory.
4. Trust in your training: If you find yourself at the end of the process then you’ve learned a lot from your earlier trials. Having accomplished 90% will have equipped you with what you need to go the rest of the way. Clear your mind and trust in what you’ve learned. Have the confidence to not overthink the situation and trust that you’ll finish the last 10 percent.