5 Suggestions to Help Pave the Road to Success

How strong is your drive to achieve your goals? As we move into a new year it’s a good time to evaluate your vision and how you plan to achieve it. It is also important to remember that it is not enough to start on the road to success – but you need to be determined to finish the race and reach those goals.

First, you need to have a plan. How often have your heard the analogy of the challenge of reaching your destination without a roadmap? So put those 2021 goals in writing. Then list 3 goals to achieve within the next 90 days – goals that will help you reach your 12 month plan – and be sure to calendar your weeks to help you stay focused and to use your time effectively.

Next, be sure to keep your focus on commitment – not just on motivation. Is your “Why” strong enough that you are willing to make sacrifices to reach your goals? Are you willing embrace a few detours on your way to success? Be ready to “fail forward”. Accept that you may hit some snags along the way and have some challenges – but don’t let yourself get caught up in a victim mentality. Look at those snags as opportunities for problem solving. Designers are problem solvers, so when you hit those bumps in the road, challenge yourself and fire up your imagination to find a solution. Focus on the road ahead and enjoy the exploration along the way. If you are truly committed, you will be open to constant learning – adjusting and improving – and not just be focused on the final results.

Third, don’t be afraid to seek help. Think about past design projects that were very successful and then think about all of the people who contributed to that success. There is usually great value in brainstorming with others to come up with an even greater plan or design concept and to get a second opinion when you might question your plans. That does not mean you rely on others to reach your goals – but just be willing to

Fourth, be sure to enjoy the ride. Make it fun – get up every morning excited to get back on the road with a positive outlook. Staying positive can be more of a challenge when you encounter problems. That’s when you need to be ready to fire up your imagination and fill your mind with positive thoughts of excitement, enthusiasm, the urge to try new things and push yourself out of your comfort zone.

Fifth, don’t let yourself get in the way of your own success. What differentiates those who are successful from those who aren’t is simply mindset. Just as it takes work to keep our body in shape – it takes work to keep our mind in shape. Constantly replace negative thoughts with the positive vision of your success – conquer your hidden fear and don’t settle for the status quo. Always remember – mindset is a choice.