Wish It Want It Do It

Wish It, Want It, Do It: A Comprehensive Guide to Achieving Your Goals

The journey from a simple wish to a tangible accomplishment is often paved with good intentions and stalled by procrastination. We all have dreams, aspirations, and goals – that nagging voice whispering about what we wish we could do, what we want to achieve, and the ultimate prize: doing it. This comprehensive guide will explore the psychology behind this process, offer practical strategies to bridge the gap between wishing and doing, and empower you to transform your dreams into reality.

Understanding the Three Stages: Wish, Want, Do

The "Wish It, Want It, Do It" framework isn't just a catchy phrase; it's a three-stage process reflecting the evolution of a goal.

1. Wish It: The Seed of Intention

This initial stage is characterized by fleeting thoughts, daydreams, and vague aspirations. It's the realm of "wouldn't it be nice if…" scenarios. While seemingly insignificant, this stage is crucial because it's where the seed of your ambition is planted. You might wish for a healthier lifestyle, a new career, or a stronger relationship. These wishes, though intangible, represent a latent potential waiting to be nurtured.

Key characteristics of the "Wish It" stage:

• Vague and undefined: Goals lack specificity and measurable targets.
• Driven by emotion: Desire is present, but lacks a structured plan.
• Passive and dreamy: Little to no action is taken to move forward.

2. Want It: Cultivating Desire and Defining Goals

The "Want It" stage is where wishes transform into concrete desires. It's the bridge between dreaming and doing. This involves defining your goals with clarity, identifying the steps required to achieve them, and developing a strong internal motivation.

Key actions to transition from "Wish It" to "Want It":

• Specificity is key: Replace vague wishes with SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound). Instead of "I wish I were healthier," aim for "I want to lose 10 pounds in three months by exercising three times a week and following a healthy diet."
• Identify your "why": Understanding the underlying reasons behind your goals fuels your motivation. Ask yourself: Why is this goal important to me? What will achieving it bring to my life?
• Break down large goals: Overwhelming goals can be paralyzing. Break them into smaller, manageable steps that feel less daunting.
• Visualize success: Mentally rehearse achieving your goals. This helps build confidence and reinforces your commitment.
• Create a vision board: A visual representation of your goals can serve as a constant reminder and motivator.

3. Do It: Taking Action and Overcoming Obstacles

The final stage, "Do It," requires consistent action and unwavering commitment. It's where the rubber meets the road. This stage is characterized by focused effort, resilience in the face of challenges, and the unwavering pursuit of your objectives.

Key strategies for successful execution:

• Create a schedule: Allocate specific time slots for working towards your goals. Consistency is crucial.
• Track your progress: Monitor your achievements, celebrate milestones, and adjust your strategy if needed.
• Seek support: Surround yourself with a supportive network of friends, family, or mentors who can offer encouragement and accountability.
• Embrace failure as a learning opportunity: Setbacks are inevitable. Learn from your mistakes and use them to refine your approach.
• Celebrate your wins: Acknowledge and reward yourself for your accomplishments, no matter how small. This reinforces positive behavior and boosts morale.
• Develop a strong support system: Having people who believe in you and will help you stay accountable is vital.

Overcoming Procrastination and Self-Doubt

The biggest hurdle between wishing and doing is often procrastination and self-doubt. These are common obstacles that can derail even the most ambitious individuals.

Tackling Procrastination:

• Identify your procrastination triggers: Understanding why you procrastinate is the first step to overcoming it. Are you afraid of failure? Are you overwhelmed by the task?
• Break down tasks into smaller chunks: Large tasks can feel insurmountable. Divide them into smaller, more manageable steps.
• The Pomodoro Technique: Work in focused bursts (e.g., 25 minutes) followed by short breaks.
• The Two-Minute Rule: If a task takes less than two minutes, do it immediately.
• Eliminate distractions: Create a workspace free from interruptions. Turn off notifications and put your phone away.
• Reward yourself: Give yourself a small reward after completing a task.

Conquering Self-Doubt:

• Challenge negative self-talk: Identify and challenge negative thoughts. Replace them with positive affirmations.
• Focus on your strengths: Remind yourself of your past successes and capabilities.
• Seek positive feedback: Surround yourself with supportive people who believe in you.
• Practice self-compassion: Be kind to yourself, especially when things don't go as planned.
• Embrace imperfection: Perfectionism is a major source of self-doubt. Strive for progress, not perfection.

Maintaining Momentum and Long-Term Success

Achieving your goals is not a sprint; it's a marathon. Maintaining momentum and long-term success requires consistent effort, adaptability, and a willingness to learn and grow.

Strategies for Sustained Success:

• Regular review and adjustment: Periodically review your goals and progress. Adjust your strategy as needed.
• Continuous learning: Stay informed about your field and continuously seek opportunities for personal and professional development.
• Flexibility and adaptability: Life throws curveballs. Be prepared to adapt your plans as circumstances change.
• Self-care: Prioritize your physical and mental well-being. A healthy mind and body are essential for sustained success.
• Celebrate your achievements: Acknowledge and reward yourself for your progress. This reinforces positive behavior and motivates you to continue.

Examples of Applying the Wish, Want, Do Framework

Let's illustrate how this framework works with real-life examples:

Example 1: Improving Fitness

• Wish: I wish I were healthier and more fit.
• Want: I want to run a 5k race in six months. I will achieve this by running three times a week, increasing my distance gradually, and following a healthy diet.
• Do: Create a running schedule, find a running buddy, download a fitness app to track progress, and adjust the diet accordingly.

Example 2: Learning a New Skill

• Wish: I wish I could speak Spanish fluently.
• Want: I want to be able to hold a basic conversation in Spanish in three months. I will achieve this by taking an online course, practicing with a language partner, and immersing myself in Spanish-language media.
• Do: Enroll in the online course, find a language exchange partner online, and start watching Spanish-language movies and TV shows.

Example 3: Starting a Business

• Wish: I wish I could start my own business.
• Want: I want to launch my online store selling handmade jewelry within one year. I will achieve this by creating a business plan, sourcing materials, building a website, and marketing my products.
• Do: Develop a detailed business plan, research suppliers, design the website, and create a marketing strategy.

Conclusion: Embracing the Power of Action

The journey from "Wish It" to "Want It" to "Do It" is a powerful process that empowers you to transform your aspirations into reality. By understanding the psychology behind this framework, developing effective strategies, and cultivating unwavering commitment, you can overcome obstacles, achieve your goals, and live a more fulfilling life. Remember, the power to shape your future lies within your ability to take consistent action. Start small, stay focused, and celebrate your progress along the way. The journey may be challenging, but the rewards of achieving your dreams are immeasurable.