The Glass Half Full and the Goals That Stretch Us – ElPropósito3 min de lectura

The big difference between "what I have left" and "what I’ve already done"

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  Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay

In my last post, "An Ironman in Memory of My Son Juan Diego," I promised to write about the difference between two phrases: "how far I still have to go" and "how far I’ve already come." It’s a simple shift with real power. It can transform our mindset and attitude toward a demanding goal and help us find a way forward through adversity.

Once we set a goal, execution follows, and with it one of the biggest personal responsibilities any of us, or any organization, can take on. Goals should be big, demanding, concise and, above all, realistic enough to move us for good into a new mental, physical and emotional place. That’s why we need a broad and deep clarity about why the goal matters, which goes a long way toward making sure we get there.

As we work toward what we want, we need to know where we stand at every moment, and that’s the heart of this post. "How far I still have to go" and "how far I’ve already come" can stir very different feelings, emotions, attitudes and moods. The second carries a built-in sense of achievement and celebration. It lets us take on a different attitude, with more energy and drive to keep going.

One thing we usually skip is celebrating. Part of the reason is our natural habit of staying locked on the task until it’s done. Yet celebrating at the halfway mark, or at each step, is a small act that feeds the spirit of the work. It makes the road more enjoyable, keeps the original goal in sight, lets us feel our progress and, in the end, gives us a deep sense of fulfillment when we finally cross the line.

During the Ironman marathon, I had a great chance to put this to the test. As the kilometers went by, I knew I still had a long way to go, but I kept my mind on what I’d already done: 3.86 km of swimming and 180 km on the bike. I wanted to feel inspired through the last third of the race, and I got there by thinking about everything I’d already achieved, how long I’d waited for that moment and the purpose behind the race, which came from the noblest place a father can have.

On an ordinary day, it’s easy to get absorbed in the task and in nothing but finishing it. Goals with a clear vision, tied to our purpose, that share success with everyone involved and celebrate the small big wins will always help us see the glass half full and keep going until it’s full (ideally with our favorite drink).

A few questions to reflect on:

• How much do you celebrate along the way?
• How often do you focus more on what’s missing than on everything you’ve already achieved?
• How do you keep the fire burning so you stay consistent and disciplined in chasing your goals?

Have a great week, all the best,

Rodrigo Baccaro

• P.S. The book I’m reading this week: Braving the Wilderness

Author: Rodrigo Baccaro

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