Michelle Prince’s second tip is to “practice discipline and motivation.” This one can sometimes be difficult to maintain. Michelle suggests focusing on the end result. Stephen Covey, author of The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, says it this way: “Begin with the end in mind.” Think about the desired result and how good it will feel when you can celebrate it.

To-do lists and written goals are helpful to me. When I set a reasonable expectation for myself, it is easier to achieve the goals. I may not always feel like pressing so hard. I find that it is better to at least achieve two or three things on a less strenuous list than to try to push myself to the point that I give up and don’t accomplish anything of significance. The feeling of satisfaction I enjoy when I know I am moving forward toward something better, is well worth the time I sacrifice.