Move over new years resolutions, in 2023 we’re using embodied goal setting
Explore the Embodied Goal Setting Notion Dashboard and Planner
An everlasting dashboard and planner that will help you to tap into your vision and values, gain clarity for your goals and be your biggest cheerleader in creating aligned action.
Do you know what’s out for 2023? Empty new years resolutions of what you *think* you should be doing in your life.
And what’s in? Adding embodied goal setting to your mindfulness practice.
Embodied goal setting is a practice that involves setting goals and intentions while being fully present in the body and its sensations. This approach to goal setting emphasises the importance of the body's wisdom and experiences in achieving goals, rather than solely focusing on the outcome or end result.
It involves using physical and emotional experiences to set and work towards your goals, rather than just relying on willpower or mental determination alone.
The difference between embodied goal setting vs traditional goal setting
One of the key differences between embodied goal setting and traditional goal setting is focusing on being in the present moment. While normal goal-setting techniques often focus on the future and what we want to achieve, embodied goal-setting brings attention to the present moment and how we can use our physical sensations and experiences to move towards our goals.
The benefits of embodied goal-setting
One of the key benefits of embodied goal setting is that it helps to create a stronger connection between the body and the goal. When we engage the body in the goal-setting process, it can be easier to stay motivated and focused on what we want to achieve. This is because the body and mind are interconnected, and our physical experiences can influence our thoughts and emotions in powerful ways.
Embodied goal-setting techniques
Rather than setting a goal of losing weight, an embodied goal-setting practice might involve setting a goal of finding ways to move your body in a way that brings joy and a sense of accomplishment, such as going for a walk in nature or taking a dance class.
Using embodied goal setting with visualisation:
One way to practice embodied goal setting is through future self visualisation. This involves using your imagination to see yourself achieving your goal in your mind’s eye. As you visualise, try to engage as many senses as possible – see the goal clearly, hear any sounds that might be associated with it, and feel the emotions and physical sensations that come with achieving it. In addition, you could create a vision board to further connect with your embodied goals.
Using embodied goal setting with meditation:
Another technique for embodied goal setting is meditation. Meditation can help to quiet the mind and create a sense of inner calm and clarity, which can be helpful when setting and working towards your goals. It can also help to increase focus and concentration, which can be important when it comes to staying motivated and on track.
Overall, embodied goal setting is a powerful tool for achieving your goals and creating the life you want. By using visualisation and meditation to connect the body and mind, you can ensure that the goals you are creating for yourself are truly yours - not what you think society, your family or your friends think you should be doing.
Do you like the sound of sensory-based goal setting? Keep on reading to see how embodied goal setting can be an addition to your mindfulness practice.
How to incorporate embodied goal setting into mindfulness practice
Incorporating embodied goal setting into mindfulness practices can be a powerful tool for achieving our goals and intentions. Here are some ways to incorporate embodied goal-setting into your mindfulness practice:
Set sensory-based goals: Rather than focusing solely on the outcome of your goal, consider setting goals that focus on sensory experiences. For example, rather than setting a goal of "getting in shape," you might set a goal of "finding ways to move my body that bring a sense of joy and accomplishment."
Remember to record and regularly visit your goals. We like to use this Notion template as our support team.Practice mindfulness whilst goal setting: Take time to tune in to your body's sensations and experiences as you work towards your goals. This might involve paying attention to your breath, your posture, or any physical sensations that arise as you move towards your goals.
Affirmations and embodied goal setting: Affirmations can be a powerful tool for shifting your mindset and focus towards your goals. Consider incorporating affirmations that focus on the present moment and your physical sensations, such as "I am worthy and capable of achieving my goals" or "I am present and fully alive in my body."
By incorporating sensory experiences, mindfulness of the body, affirmations, and movement into your goal-setting process, you can bring greater awareness and presence to your goals and the steps needed to achieve them.