O is for Only: A to Z Blogging Challenge 2018

The A2Z Blog Team prompt word is only. They took the high road with only, as in there are only a few more days of the challenge left. 

I tend to not take the high road when it comes to only.  I view only as negatively as I view justa.

Yeah, I know justa is not a word. Just a is really a phrase or fragment, but I don't like just a because it usually is linked with an excuse for the inability to accomplish a task....I can't because I'm just a girl...I'm only a nurse..a kid...a mom. You probably have your own only or just a.

In this context there is no just a.  There is no only.  You are enough as you are. There is nothing justa or only anout you.

Stop making excusses. With determination, hard work, and time you can accomplish reasonable goals you set for yourself. 

Maybe the goal takes longer--that doesn't make it any less amazing or inspirational. It may even make it more so to the bystanders observing your progress. Especially the ones who know your struggles.

Just make sure to set SMART goals.  SMART goals are:

Specific.
Measurable.
Attainable.
Realistic.
Timebound.

For example, I'm going to lose weight, is a common goal; however, it is not SMART.

A SMART goal might be:
Before my High School Reunion July 15th, I will lose 15 pounds by drinking a protien shake for breakfast, eating a salad at lunch,  snacking on a small Apple and 1Table spoon of peanutbutter, eating no more than 3oz lean meat at dinner, and walking 2 miles each day. 

It has all the requirements.  It's also more restrictive than what I follow, which is why I likely will not make that particular weight loss goal.

This year.

Remember, you can attain realistic SMART goals. It's a process. A journey. The most avoidable stumbling block you face is the foot between your ears.

In fact, if you believe in yourself, apply yourself, and work hard you might even realize an impossible goal or two along the way.