Staying on track with plans, goals and schedules requires consistency, motivation, and persistence. We need to hold ourselves accountable for what we’ve set out to do.

Accountability demands that we motivate ourselves consistently which is an absolute must to achieve our goals. Let’s lay out some pointers to help keep you staying on track.

1. Write Down Everything You Need to Do

Journals and planners are fantastic tools for forming workable aim-achieving plans. These allow you to see a systematic strategy on a daily, weekly, and monthly level with time allotments worked into tasks. Use these tools to help you plot your progress.

2. Take Breaks and Recharge

Avoid burning out by learning to rest and reward yourself with something you enjoy doing. All work and no play do make you a dull person. As part of your working plans, periodically factor in time away from your tasks. Doing so will refresh your spirits, getting you raring to go the extra mile again.

3. Tell Others of Your Goal

Tell your friends of your long-term goals. They will cheer you for your wins and motivate you when you’re feeling down. Your friends will keep you accountable and on track. Celebrate your smallest wins regularly and share the challenges you face. Don’t be afraid to seek support and motivation from people who want to see you win.

4. Work on Small Goals To Build Up To Bigger Challenges

As they say, don’t run a mile when you haven’t walked one first. If your goal is to run seven miles, you don’t start jogging seven. Start by walking a mile, daily building up your stamina, until you reach the seven-mile non-stop run.

Break big goals into smaller achievable bits. Start small, building momentum toward larger ones. Ticking off lesser to-do’s first gives you a sense of achievement and allows you to scale tasks.

5. Work on Self Discipline

Help yourself avoid distractions and time wasters. If this means putting away your game controllers or muting social media apps, do so. Discipline yourself to stay productive. Follow planned schedules to assure yourself of staying on track.

Embrace a sense of self-accountability. The rewards of achievement are well worth the climb.

Photo Credit @Masensus