Setting Yourself Up for Success

Ask yourself:

Are your intentions clearly defined?

Think about it, you wouldn’t build a house without blueprints. Do you know exactly what you hope to achieve? Are you building a log cabin or a mansion – very different vibes, right? The same should apply to your goals. Think of it as your own personal blueprint. What specifically are you trying to do? When do you want to achieve this goal?

Who is your support system?

Another important consideration is who you turn to on the days you feel discouraged? Who can give you that pep-talk when you are feeling deflated? Our support system is important and can be diverse. Perhaps you thought of some family or friends? Perhaps if your goal is related to a sport, you might think of your coaches as part of your support system. However, you might think of teachers, neighbors, mentors, and therapists, who you can also turn to for support. People don’t have to be related to us to be impactful on our journeys. The key is to simply identify trustworthy people who can hold space for you when you feel down.

Why is this important to you?

This final question is important, perhaps the most important question of all. Why is this important to you? Spoiler alert – if it’s not important to you, then you won’t likely put the work in to achieve it. Also, if it’s only important to you for a superficial reason, like your friends are doing it, then that may not be a strong enough why.

 

Caitlin Alfonso is a creative thinker who has a passion for seeing potential in people and places and taking small ideas to new levels. She is a lover of coffee, travel, and books. She enjoys time with family, friends, and her dog.

By degree, Caitlin is a Licensed Master Social Worker in the state of Arizona. Her passion is with youth and has more than 15 years of experience working in various settings, including juvenile detention and probation, non-profit sector, parks and recreation, public schools, community, and hospital behavioral health. In addition to currently working as a medical social worker, Caitlin operates her own consulting business, teaches at Arizona State University, and serves on the Board of Directors for I Am Teen Strong, a local non-profit.