# Getting Back on Track: Overcoming Challenges and Achieving Goals
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Chapter 1: Embracing Setbacks
“Worrying is akin to rocking in a chair. It keeps you occupied, but it won't take you anywhere.”
— Van Wilder, Van Wilder: Party Liaison (2002).
Van Wilder, you’ve captured the essence perfectly! Constant worry leads nowhere.
As someone who thrives on challenges, I frequently set goals, whether monthly or weekly. When I'm not pursuing a specific target, I often feel stagnant. For instance, I established a goal for May to publish a certain number of articles on Medium, but I find myself falling short.
While the prospect of failure doesn't frighten me, the thought of regaining my momentum is daunting. I tend to overthink it when I should simply let go of past missteps and get back on track.
Like Van Wilder suggested, worrying doesn’t propel us forward.
When I find myself off course, I take the following steps:
I visualize the effort required. Many people tend to picture the results of their hard work, like “I will earn $100,000 in two months” or “I will achieve a million views on my YouTube channel.” However, they often neglect to focus on the actual work needed to get there.
Watch this insightful video by legal analyst and bestselling author Mel Robbins, where she discusses the importance of visualization. She asserts:
“If you want to reach your goals and manifest your desires, you must see yourself executing the work.”
In moments of low motivation, instead of dwelling on reasons to stay in bed, I spend ten minutes imagining my day: getting up, praying, exercising, showering, enjoying my favorite productivity drink, and settling down at my desk to write.
I avoid overthinking, allowing the scene to play out in my mind as if it's already happened.
It may sound like a bunch of magical nonsense, but it’s effective. Here’s the science behind it:
The Reticular Activating System (RAS) is a network of neurons in the brainstem that plays a crucial role in attention, arousal, and other functions like sleep. The RAS is connected to the limbic system, which governs emotions and memory. This connection is significant for visualization and manifestation.
When we visualize an outcome, we create a mental image that activates the RAS, sending signals to the limbic system. These signals foster emotional states and memories linked to that image, increasing the likelihood of experiencing it in reality. Thus, visualization serves as a powerful manifestation tool.
Remembering the Joy of Childhood
I recall the days when I would daydream about receiving a shiny gadget, like an iPod or a mini helicopter. On my birthday, I would wake up to find the very item I had imagined.
I often wonder, “Did my dad read my mind?” It felt like magic—yet I had simply visualized myself using that iPod on the bus every day, and without asking, my dreams came true.
When it comes to re-engaging with my goals after periods of inactivity or stress, envisioning myself doing the necessary work helps me embody the person I aspire to be.
While I am generally achieving my goals, I am not a machine. There are days when I lack the motivation to write, let alone produce 20,000 words to hit my target of 100,000 words each week.
I'm Harnessing the Power of Affirmations
The year 2022 marks my transformation into a writing powerhouse. I am conquering my doubts and smashing my writing objectives.
This morning, I woke up and envisioned a productive workday, and by 6 AM, I had already penned 8,000 words! Amazing!
I also maintain a list of strategies for regaining focus after periods of idleness. You can find it here:
How to Regain Focus After Periods of Inactivity
Slow and steady wins the race.
Final Thoughts
Setbacks are a natural part of the journey, especially when you’re actively pursuing your goals. I regularly set ambitious challenges, and while I sometimes fall short, other times I succeed gloriously.
Now, as I reach the midpoint of the month, I realize I’m not where I intended to be with my goals. However, I refuse to be concerned. If you find yourself in a similar situation, remember: you can regain your focus, visualize yourself taking action, and if your current goal feels unrealistic, set a new one.
Worrying is counterproductive; instead, visualize, breathe, and take action! Ready, set, go!
Chapter 2: Visualization Techniques for Success
In this video, Mel Robbins elaborates on the transformative power of visualization and how it can help you align your actions with your goals.
This video discusses practical techniques to overcome feelings of being stuck and offers strategies to get back on track.