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Setting goals can be an excellent way to help you on your path to healing from traumatic events. Let me share with you what I've discovered about goal setting during my own journey of recovery from narcissistic abuse and domestic violence.
How Goal Setting Can Help You Heal
Setting goals can be a really helpful way to support healing. Essentially, you create a roadmap that breaks down the big task of recovery into smaller, more manageable steps, making the whole process feel a lot less overwhelming.
When you focus on specific goals, you can direct your energy and attention toward positive actions and outcomes. This not only supports your recovery journey but also helps you regain a sense of control and empowerment, which can often feel lost after experiencing traumatic events.
How to Set Helpful Recovery Goals
First, take a moment for a self-assessment to pinpoint areas that you want to work on. This could be anything from emotional and physical to social or spiritual aspects of your life. Once you’ve got these areas in mind, setting specific goals becomes a breeze.
Next, try breaking down those big goals into smaller, bite-sized tasks. This way, the whole process feels a lot less daunting, and you can celebrate each little victory along the way. It’s also a good idea to prioritise your goals, focusing on what’s most important or will make the biggest difference in your overall well-being.
Don’t forget to regularly check in and tweak your goals as needed. As you move forward in your recovery, some goals might need a little adjustment to fit new situations or achievements.
Make Sure You Set SMART Goals
SMART goals—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound—play a pivotal role in trauma recovery. These types of goals provide a clear framework that helps individuals stay focused and motivated.
Specific goals eliminate ambiguity, making it easier to know exactly what needs to be done. Measurable goals allow for tracking progress, providing tangible evidence of improvement. Achievable goals ensure that the objectives set are realistic and within reach, preventing discouragement. Relevant goals keep the focus on what truly matters for recovery, and time-bound goals create a sense of urgency and commitment.
