First steps.
In previous posts, I mentioned two first steps toward a Net Present Value lifestyle.
Those first steps included suggestions for Living at Cause, and for avoiding Three Common Regrets.
I’d like to take a minute to describe another first step—an important one. This one about reminders.
You probably know all about the power of positive affirmations, and the importance of setting goals
You probably know all that.
But, just as a recap, allow me this brief explanation…
Many experts say that seeing or hearing an ongoing motivational message is crucial for your success.
Even a simple positive statement such as I’m a winner, if seen repeatedly, can have a lasting impact.
In addition, experts will advise you to establish, and keep track of, your goals.
Write your goals and affirmations down, and make sure you see them every day.
Put them on sticky notes, they’ll say,
Paste one to your dresser mirror, and another on your breakfast cereal box.
Seeing them every day.
That’s what’s important
Now let me give you my take on this strategy,
I think you need something more conspicuous, more front-and-centre.
Sticky notes, useful for many things, just don’t cut it for me. They’re too easy to miss.
So, instead of sticky notes, enter your goals and affirmations in your smartphone or computer’s calendar,
And set reminders that pop up at least once a day.
So that you’ll get, every day, something like this.
But here’s an even better, if somewhat abstract or philosophical, idea.
Did you know that Athena is the Greek mythical goddess of handicrafts?
Or that Demeter is the god of agriculture and horticulture?
With that in mind, why not use a Greek god as your very own personal avatar?
Just look up the Greek god that typifies your goal, create an affirmation that links you with that mythical figure, and then set a reminder.
For instance,
If you’d like to make the leap to something associated with music.
Then Apollo—the god of music—is your guy.
Just set a reminder that reads;
And make sure you see it every day.
I think you’ll be surprised at the positive impact a simple, and whimsical, statement like that can make.
Too weird for you?
Worried about what your family or friends will think if they catch a glimpse of your personal reminder?
Then bear in mind that you will always come across detractors and naysayers.
Understand too, that people will often try to discourage you or poke fun at your ideas.
Also bear in mind these two, final, suggestions;
One: memorize this phrase: “What others think of me is none of my business.”
Two: try to imagine the reminders that your detractors might be forced to look at each and every day,
Maybe something like this?
After all, the choice is yours. Get a reminder from a god, or let a naysayer steal your dream.
Ideas? Suggestions? Questions? Please leave a comment.
