What day is it? Do you feel like the days are blending, and it’s getting difficult to differentiate between the weekdays and weekends? I’m finding it challenging to maintain a healthy work and life balance and stay my course. Brian Tracy, the author of the book GOALS!, suggests you “write down your goals, make plans to achieve them, and work on your plans every single day.” Here are some essential strategies to eliminate the static and help reset, refocus, reexamine, and potentially redefine your goals.
Financial Goals: I have near and long-term financial goals. Even the smallest goals can be compelling. For example, I made a list of my monthly bills and statements and moved them to electronic delivery. I then set up automatic monthly bill-pay. I enjoy increasing my financial literacy and using monthly financial statements or quarterly reviews is a good starting point.
Emotional Goals: Focusing on what I can control has helped me to reduce my stress and stay rational during these irrational times. During Harvard’s “Managing stress: Grounding Strategies for Dealing with the COVID-19 Pandemic,” forum, Amantia Ametaj reminded us that we can take charge of our emotions. “It’s normal to feel stressed. Stress and anxiety help us identify and respond to threats in the environment and to plan for the future.” I eased my nerves by reviewing my financial portfolio to ensure current objectives are aligned with future goals. I seized on this opportunity to discuss personal finances and estate planning with my family, and we reexamined everyone’s immediate cash needs, visions, and goals.
Mental Goals: I’m trying to maintain my regular routine (and not stay in my PJs all day). If I begin each day with an objective and set work boundaries, I remain resilient. According to Jen Fisher, Deloitte’s Chief Wellbeing Officer, “As remote work becomes more prominent, it’s important to set boundaries for ourselves — especially around how we use tech so that it’s beneficial and doesn’t detract from our well-being.” Each night I take stock of the day. I make a mental note of the goals I’ve achieved and, inevitably, the goals I need to revisit tomorrow. Wash, rinse, and repeat!
Health and Wellness Goals: Whenever I start working with a new tennis coach, professor, yoga instructor, etc. the first questions they ask are? “What are your goals, what would you like to accomplish?” Attack each new day with this attitude. I envision where I want to be and layout realistic goals to get there.
My self-care must come first, so I reset my networking goals and phone a different friend or family member each day. Offering peace of mind by connecting with others is a healthy way for me to stay grounded. We are all in this together and can offer support to one another.
Whether you want to reset, reexamine, or redefine your goals, or need an extra push to look at your financials, you may find that these strategies will help your confidence.
Kristin Hovencamp is an Investment Consultant and Director of Business Development at Hazlett Wealth Management, LLC. HAZLETT WEALTH MANAGEMENT, LLC is independent of Raymond James and is not a registered broker/dealer. Investment advisory services are offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc. Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. 675 Sun Valley Road Ketchum, Idaho, 208.726.0605. HazlettWealthManagement.com