You’re Never Too Old for a Gold-Star Chart
A classic kindergarten tool is a great motivator for adults, too
As a creative right-brained thinker, I’m highly susceptible to shiny-new-thing syndrome. I’m great at thinking big and brainstorming lofty goals, but when it comes to taking the necessary steps to get there — ooh, look at that new opportunity over there! Wait, what was I saying?
Over the years, though, I’ve developed some systems to keep myself in check and actually get things done. These systems have helped me to write novels, lose 120 pounds, and build a business. One of my favorites: I set tiny daily goals for myself and give myself a gold star for each one I meet.
Yes, a literal gold star. I buy myself the same kind of foil stickers that kindergarten teachers have used to motivate six-year-olds for decades and stick them on my calendar so I can visualize my progress. Somehow, seeing those tiny rewards — and watching them accumulate day after day — can be a thrill, even for grown adults. The stars are a visual reminder of how far I’ve gotten. They motivate me to keep going.
You can use the gold-star system for whatever it is you’re trying to achieve. The trick is to keep your daily goal very small so that skipping the task is psychologically more painful than just doing it. I tell…
