Dear breakmystride,

I have been having similar sentiments lately and feel as though I have been in a perpetual rut for quite some time. I am struggling with lack of direction attributed mostly to my not establishing goals for myself. I know goal setting is essential to realizing a productive and satisfying life since it helps provide a road map to success (be it relational, occupational, or personal). This week I am hashing out a list of 3 things I want to accomplish within the next 1, 5, and 10 years. This is going to be the foundation of an action plan. After I have these in writing I am going to send a copy to a couple of people I trust who will hold me accountable. Also, I am going to post this goal list in a visible place in my home to reference frequently for tracking, updating, and focusing. I have been "winging it " through life thus far and responding to events that happen to me. I really need to be more strategic and intentional in how I live my remaining years.

I appreciate your posting this thread because it is a topic that has caused me much distress for quite some time. I am not sure if my "plan to plan" resonates with you, everyone is wonderfully unique in their inner wiring. I do wish you the very best success and happiness in your journey to finding the strategy that works best for you and your situation. If you get discouraged, try writing down all the things you have accomplished in life (including what you have listed here). If your list is running short, ask those who know you best. I just received a text from an associate who mentioned that they have missed my encouraging and cheerful presence in their life. Easy for me to over look as I am currently very depressed and can't imagine being either cheerful or encouraging at the moment.

All the best
h2s