While working toward goal achievement, it is important to include days of rest and reflection. Goal achievement does not need to be a grind to be successful. Goals are more likely to be achieved when we can do so with fun and joy in our life. This means that when we are crafting the timeline and planning the actions necessary to achieve our goals, it is helpful to include days off.

Self-care when on the road to goal attainment is crucial for creating and replenishing the energy needed to make the sacrifices required to achieve our goals. For example, when trying to pay off debt, allowing yourself one small planned splurge a month or continuing to buy your favorite coffee drink can make the difference between persevering or giving up. Goal planning, setting, and achievement work best when they are a gift we give to ourselves, rather than a punishment for our “bad behavior” in the past. My view is that goal attainment works best when it involves a balance between sacrifice and reward, allowing for frequent breaks that don’t become quitting. For example, if you love coffee but need to buy less to achieve your goal, switching to a smaller size rather than stopping entirely is a reduction that limits feelings of deprivation. Allowing for a “cheat day” when losing weight can reduce feelings of deprivation, and if these days are planned, then they are not a derailment. Having days off during the good work to achieve goals helps improve motivation and attainment.