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I realized earlier today that other than the upcoming Zombie 5k, I don't really have any short-term goals set for myself.  I think that's an important part of the journey.  So, I started thinking about which short-term goals have motivated me in the past.  

I remember once having a "goal outfit" to inspire me.  I picked out an outfit that I really loved, but that was also way, waaaay too small for me.  I hung it on the back of my bathroom door so that I would see it every time I stepped out of the shower.  When I looked at it every day, I would visualize myself wearing it...down to the shoes.  The thing is, that outfit wasn't even really anything special.  It was just a simple new work outfit.  But it may as well have been haute couture, as far as I was concerned...I liked it that much.  

You know, having that goal really worked!  I met that goal, and I wore that outfit all the time.  I loved it every time I wore it.  It fit me exactly as I had visualized.  The pants were wide-legged and made of this beautiful navy blue, drapey kind of material.  They were gorgeous. The shirt was a delicate, short-sleeved, polka-dotted, girly blouse.  Totally classic. Whenever I wore that outfit, I felt like I was on the runway for Valentino, at Fashion Week.   I will never forget how good that felt.  That was a great goal to set for myself.  

So this Labor Day, while everyone else is off having their last fling with summer - swimming, boating, cooking out -  I will be spending my holiday "shopping" in my closet.  It's time to pick out a new goal outfit.  I have a lot of brandnew clothes I've never worn, so I am excited to look through everything.  It's going to be a fun day!

Who knows?  Maybe I'll choose those cute bellbottom jeans that still have the tags on them and the ivory boho top....or that cute black dress I've never been able to wear, but often look at and admire.  I may even find something I've completely forgotten about altogether!  It's going to be fun picking something out, and I'll be organizing my closet in the process!  Win/win!

I've learned from previous diets that it's critical to have short-term goals like this one.  It makes things fun and interesting, and it keeps your mind occupied while you're on the journey toward your bigger, ultimate goal. 

It's good to use the "mini-goals" as distractions along the way, because sometimes the end goal can seem so far off and insurmountable.  Plus, every single time you achieve one of the smaller, more easily attainable goals, it gives you more and more confidence. The classic snowball effect, you know?  The plan is to be so busy achieving small goals that you don't even think about the big goal...until you get there.  

It's decided then...a new goal outfit it is!  So, for now, I'm off to channel my inner "Anna Wintour" and find the perfect outfit...right here in my own closet!  

Have a great Labor Day, my friends.

**striking a pose in Florida**