Transformation Thursdays: How to achieve Big Goals Copy 2

I’ve always been on the lookout for goal-reaching strategies. Not because I haven’t achieved what I aimed for - I have, for some goals. But for others, I’m constantly failing.

In this post I’ll describe a few steps I picked up from the Huberman Lab podcast episode with Alex Honnold, who is famous for his ropeless ascent of Yosemite’s El Capitan in the Oscar-winning film Free Solo.

Set a specific goal within given limits

The first step Alex mentioned when he was asked about achieving Big Goals is: “Always set a specific goal within given limits such as time and resources.” Translating it to Alex’s experience: “If you have only 3 hours for climbing, don’t aim to reach the top that realistically takes 6 hours.”

Do something different

Alex also suggests that you challenge yourself by doing something differently - a little bit harder or a little bit new. In a rock-climbing context, choose a new way to climb the same rock, or choose different weather conditions (within safety boundaries).

Take a small step toward your Big Goal every day

As Alex puts it: “The big thing will come naturally when you take a small step toward it every single day.” Have your Big Goal in mind, but focus on daily actions that will eventually bring you to the finish line. Translating it into Alex’s world - yes, he wanted to become great at rock climbing and earn a living with it, but on a daily basis he practiced climbing simply because he loved it.

Think of your mortality

Knowing that you are here on this planet for only a limited period of time makes Alex question what he wants to do now so he can be proud at the end of his life. Don’t be afraid to think of your final day on planet Earth; see it as a booster for the effort you put into your daily actions and as a reminder not to waste your time.

Go all in

Choose the Big Goal and don’t look back - don’t doubt - put all your energy into it.

Thank you for reading! I hope this short post gave you the boost to take a step toward your Big Goal that will eventually help you cross the finish line.