Your Journey

Success is the progressive realization of your goals. Life is a journey, not a destination. A common source of frustration for people is comparing their progress to their ultimate goal. They then run the risk of getting discouraged and abandoning their path altogether.
Suppose Bill has a goal to lose 25 pounds. After four weeks of dieting and exercise his weight has dropped four pounds. Bill is disappointed that in spite of all that effort he still weighs 21 pounds more than he wants. Convinced his goal is unattainable, Bill gives up on his weight loss plan.
Bill has given up because he failed to recognize the progress he has made. Subsequently, he has falsely concluded that his efforts have been ineffectual. Bill’s erroneous assessment stems from impatience and his preoccupation with the end result. Had Bill maintained his weight loss plan, he would have attained his goal in another five months.
Bill shortchanged himself in a number of ways. He failed to recognize the progress he was making and give himself credit for it. He expected instant results and didn’t allow enough time for his journey. He became frustrated and gave up before he had attained his goal.
It’s virtually impossible to leap from a starting point directly to an end result. There is always a journey connecting the two. When you want to drive to a particular location you can not be instantly transported there. You have to plan a route, get started, drive safely, and stay on the road through turns, traffic, and changing weather conditions. Your progress is measured in miles and you know from past experience that if you keep going you will reach your destination.
Your journey in life is no different. But rather than one objective at a time, you will have numerous goals, each with its own time frame and unique set of challenges. The pursuit of each goal entails a journey. Some journeys overlap, others are unique and distinct. Regardless of the mix, your journeys must be managed simultaneously.
For another example, let’s look at Jane’s situation. Jane is a college freshman and has many journeys to take before she graduates. These include each subject, every class, meeting new teachers, making new friends, etc. Jane’s college experience is not measured by her diploma but by her journeys and adventures.
Your life is comprised of the sum total of all your journeys. Some journeys are thoroughly enjoyable while others may feel like endurance tests. We can’t always pick and choose our journeys but we can make the best of each one. Each journey is rich with experiences and opportunities.
Here are some ways you can make the most of each journey. Objectively measure your progress and give yourself credit for it. Each step forward, no matter how small, is significant. Each step indicates that you are not standing still, and more importantly, not moving backwards. Even if you encounter a setback, resume your forward motion.
Set a timeframe for your journey that is compatible with your circumstances. If Jane were working full time and could only take one college course each semester, there’s no way she could graduate in the same time as if she were going to school full time. Journeys are personal. Don’t compare yourself or compete with someone else.
Don’t give up or get frustrated. Be consistent and persist until you complete your journey. Once you stop, you ensure you will never reach your destination.
To enjoy life, savor your journeys. Each journey can open up new horizons and enrich you in unexpected ways.