There is currently a paper sign count down at my cube with a big fat number in red. Today it read “52.” Why do I have it pinned to my wall? And why is it counting down as each day passes?

I, along with many others, have found that writing down your goal is a huge inspiration and motivational tool. For me, currently, that is the goal of being a black belt in karate, among other goals I have set for myself this year. So what does 52 mean? It is the number of days until the exam. Just seeing it there reminds me that, hey, time flies and before you know it, the big day will be here. This helps me to think strategically in planning my training, diet, mental preparedness, and rest.

Perhaps this will help you, too. If there’s a big event coming up, whether it be a vacation you’re looking forward to, or a marathon you’ve been training hard for, write it down and pin it up where you can see it every day. It will do wonders in helping you to succeed.