Writing down your goals transforms your dreams into tangible plans, reminding you to channel your energy daily into achieving them. This practice can lead to significant changes in your life.
The pandemic has disrupted our routines, making it more challenging to stay motivated and follow through with our goals. Re-establishing structure by writing down your goals can help you get back on track. Techniques like the 369 Method can enhance your motivation to manifest your desires. To make it even easier, try my free 369 Journal Template!
Writing Your Goals Down Helps You Manifest Them
Research by Dr. Gail Mathews revealed that people who write down their goals are significantly more likely to accomplish them compared to those who only verbalize their intentions. Moreover, those who shared their written goals with a friend achieved an even higher success rate.
Here are some practical tips to help you start manifesting your goals through writing:
1. Write About What You Want and Why You Want It
Don’t just jot down your goals; include the reasons behind them. Henriette Anne Klauser, in her book Write it Down, Make It Happen: Knowing What You Want – And Getting It!, calls this the “outcome of the outcome.”
For instance, instead of merely writing, “I want a house with large windows,” try writing, “I live in a beautiful house with large windows so that I can enjoy the extra light.” Understanding why your goals matter to you helps you focus on their functionality and find creative solutions. Often, focusing on the essence of your desire opens up various possibilities to achieve it.
2. Focus on the Feeling
When writing down your goals, describe how you’ll feel once you achieve them in great detail. This approach keeps the process engaging and prevents it from becoming monotonous.
Instead of writing, “I am now a highly successful dancer,” try, “I am now a highly successful dancer. What a joy it is to do what I love! It feels blissful to be surrounded by creative people. I feel welcomed and fulfilled being part of something so amazing.” By focusing on the emotions associated with your goal, you can maintain excitement and associate positive feelings with your aspirations. Spend a few minutes writing about these feelings, including specific details about the scene.
3. Repetition, Repetition, Repetition
A simple yet effective method for manifesting through writing is to choose a goal and write it down as if it is happening in the present. Repeat this sentence 15-20 times daily.
For a more creative twist, try a tip from Shakti Gawain’s Creative Visualization: Use the Power of Your Imagination to Create What You Want in Your Life. She suggests writing your goal using your name in the first, second, and third person. For example: “I, Claire, am a successful singer. Claire, you are a successful singer. Claire is a successful singer.” Regularly practicing this exercise can help reinforce your goals.
The 369 Method is another structured way to incorporate affirmations into your day. It involves writing your affirmations 3 times in the morning, 6 times in the afternoon, and 9 times before bed. Download my free 369 Method template to make this easier!
4. Use a Structured Journal
Goal-setting journals can provide a structured approach to writing down your goals. Many are available online; choose one that suits your style. Some journals help you narrow down ten goals to achieve in the next ten years and have you write them daily. Others include a short gratitude list and space to focus on a single goal for the day. Structured journals help you become more intentional about your life. Start with my free 369 Method Journal template!
5. Put It Away
This simple yet surprisingly effective tip involves writing your goals as affirmations in a special notebook and then putting it away in a sacred place or a clean drawer. The key is to leave the journal untouched for a few months. This practice helps you release attachment to the outcome and makes manifesting fun. You might be surprised by how many goals come true after some time. Ensure your journal contains both short-term and long-term goals to track progress effectively.
Conclusion
Writing down your goals is a powerful way to stay motivated and intentional. Mastering this habit can prime your brain to be goal-oriented and provide the drive to inch toward success. Enhance the process by sharing your written goals with a close, trustworthy friend via email or text for added accountability.
I’d love to hear from you: Do you write your goals down? Do you have any tips for keeping the practice interesting?