Here we are in 2021 and January coming to an end, what I had set out to achieve and the milestones I had created have somewhat drifted slightly. This was partly my fault for not having the energy or the drive to accomplish certain activities. I wanted to start the new year with amazing stuff to achieve but that vision turned to grey clouds all of a sudden. In my last blog, I highlighted the importance of removing toxic people in our lives and although I had deleted somewhat 50 numbers from my phone last year, the past came back to haunt me; I felt very down and back into the vicious circle of being used, so I was literally going back to square one.
So what did I do to move on?
It was at this moment I had to snap out of this and actually not to feel sorry for myself, these things happen and I am working on being more emotionally stronger. On a positive note, I have started to go out for a run in the evenings (one of my goals for 2021) this has given me and believe it or not a new wave of energy and I actually felt really good for the first time. I had another look at my goals and shifted a few around to make it more manageable and able to complete this around my full-time job, personal study and family life. I feel a bit better now knowing I can change things around, and in essence, we are the master of our own achievements and creating our own path in life.
What are my goals?
Here is a snippet: I am focusing on these 3 things first
I have started to make some good progress on some stuff and others not so much, I need to be more realistic and only worry about things that I can control and not worry about things that aren’t. I need to stop at times comparing myself to others, living in a state of comparison does come with its consequences. Once I have made sufficient progress on the top 3 my next goals are:
· Start planning for uni assignments
· Complete QSIR practitioner module
· Commence on my NHS Leadership Academy Programme (Mary Seacole)
What will I do to make sure I achieve this?
I will make sure I talk with people If I am experiencing difficulties, it is amazing what can be accomplished when we reach out. Make sure I do not set high expectations, this can often be a stumbling block to progress, our mind is wired to think we can do this regardless of other commitments, I need to be realistic and have a pragmatic approach, understand if things don’t get done its ok and not to beat myself too much and worry. I have learned that it's ok not to feel ok.
How will I measure my progress and success?
· Create a daily journal of progress and review this on a weekly basis
· Prioritise tasks — use Kanban Board
· If things seem overwhelming, re-look at the plan and adjust
Final thoughts
Although I do struggle at times, equally I am making progress. I have a good social circle whom I can count on to support me despite certain people in my life who seem to thrive on negativity. One goal that I have not added on my list and it's more personal is not to be taken for granted, I am learning to say no to certain things and feel more confident in saying that. I guess being on a continual learning path and experiencing the good, bad and the ugly has given me the courage to stand up for myself and to let go of certain things in life. I have started to plan on writing my book, which I hope to finish within 18 months, a personal story of me and my journey, the person that I am today.
