Achieving Goals Can Be Hard - Rx Health and Wellness

Achieving Goals Can Be Hard—Here’s How to Succeed

For women living with Type 2 diabetes or other chronic conditions, achieving health-related goals can feel particularly overwhelming. Many of us start the year full of optimism and determination, but somewhere along the way, life’s challenges derail us. Whether it’s managing blood sugar, losing weight, or simply feeling more energetic, the process of setting and achieving goals requires a thoughtful mindset and strategic action.

The truth is, reaching your goals requires more than just a wish. It demands deliberate choices, a clear purpose, and consistent effort. Here’s how you can set yourself up for success by focusing on three essential steps: choice, connection, and competence.

Why Is Achieving Goals So Difficult?

The process of achieving goals is challenging because it demands more than just wanting something. It requires action, persistence, and often a willingness to step out of your comfort zone. For women managing chronic conditions, this can mean prioritizing health amidst other life responsibilities, such as family and work.

For example, if your goal is to improve your health—whether by lowering blood sugar, shedding excess weight, or reducing stress—the first step is to identify what isn’t working and commit to making meaningful changes.

Step 1: Make a Choice

The first step to achieving any goal is making a choice. You can choose to act or choose to stay the same. Both decisions come with consequences, so it’s essential to be intentional about what you want.

Be intentional: Choose a goal that genuinely matters to you. For instance, don’t set a weight-loss goal just because someone else thinks you should. Instead, focus on improving your health for a reason that resonates with you, like feeling strong enough to play with your grandchildren or reducing your reliance on medications.
Own your choice: Deciding not to act is still a choice. Understand that inaction means accepting the status quo. Acknowledge the consequences of both action and inaction, and take responsibility for your decisions.

The real challenge isn’t determining if you want the result but whether you’re willing to accept the sacrifices required to achieve it. Every choice involves trade-offs, so be clear about what you’re willing to commit to.

Step 2: Find Your “Why”

A clear and compelling “why” can keep you motivated, even when things get tough. This is particularly important for women managing Type 2 diabetes or other chronic conditions, as the journey toward better health often involves overcoming obstacles and setbacks.

Create a personal connection: Your reason should come from within. For example, if your goal is to lower blood sugar, your “why” might be wanting to live longer, have more energy for your family, or avoid complications like nerve damage or vision loss.
Avoid external pressures: Goals motivated by others’ opinions—like losing weight to meet societal expectations—are less likely to stick. Instead, focus on what truly matters to you, such as being present for your loved ones or reclaiming your vitality.

Your “why” acts as your anchor. When you’re tempted to stray from your plan, reconnecting with your purpose can help you stay focused and committed.

Step 3: Build Competence Through Learning

Achieving a goal often requires gaining new knowledge or skills. By adopting a mindset of curiosity and growth, you can overcome obstacles and become more capable of reaching your goals.

Learn from setbacks: Every failure is an opportunity to learn and improve. For instance, if a new diet plan didn’t work, reflect on why and adjust your approach.
Expand your knowledge: Read about managing Type 2 diabetes, take a cooking class focused on healthy meals, or work with a health coach. The more you learn, the more confident you’ll feel.
Try different strategies: If one approach isn’t working, don’t be afraid to pivot. For example, if jogging isn’t enjoyable, try swimming or yoga instead.

Striving to reach your potential, even if you don’t fully achieve it, will lead to personal growth. Focus on becoming a better version of yourself, not just checking a goal off your list.

The Role of Mindset in Achieving Goals

For women with chronic conditions, mindset plays a significant role in success. Shifting your perspective from “I have to” to “I get to” can transform how you approach challenges.

Practice gratitude: Focus on what your body can do instead of what it can’t. For instance, if you’re managing diabetes, celebrate the small victories, like stabilizing your blood sugar after a healthy meal.
Embrace progress over perfection: Don’t let setbacks discourage you. Instead of aiming for perfection, strive for consistent progress. Remember, small steps lead to big changes.
Visualize success: Picture yourself achieving your goal—whether it’s walking up the stairs without getting winded or enjoying a day at the park with your family. Visualization can reinforce your commitment and make your goal feel more attainable.

The Journey Matters More Than the Destination

While achieving goals is rewarding, the journey itself is where the real transformation happens. Every step you take toward better health strengthens your resilience, builds your confidence, and shapes you into a stronger version of yourself.

Celebrate the process: Don’t tie your self-worth solely to the outcome. Acknowledge and appreciate the effort you put in, whether it’s cooking a healthy meal or completing a workout.
Stay focused on what matters: Keep your “why” front and center. Create reminders, like a vision board or journal, to stay connected to your purpose.
Learn from challenges: View setbacks as opportunities to grow rather than reasons to give up.

Putting It All Together: Time for Action

Once you’ve made a choice, connected with your “why,” and built competence, it’s time to take action. Action is the bridge between intention and achievement.

Start small: Break your goal into manageable steps. For example, if your goal is to lower blood sugar, start by replacing sugary snacks with healthier alternatives or taking a 10-minute walk after meals.
Be consistent: Progress comes from steady effort over time. Even small, daily actions can lead to significant results.
Hold yourself accountable: Track your progress and celebrate every win, no matter how small. Accountability reinforces commitment and builds momentum.

Remember, choosing not to act is still a choice. By taking action, you’re choosing growth and change. Without action, you’re opting to remain the same.

Final Thoughts

Achieving goals—whether health-related or otherwise—is never easy, but it’s always worth it. By focusing on choice, connection, and competence, you can set yourself up for success. Adopting a growth mindset and staying connected to your “why” will help you overcome challenges and stay motivated.

Start today. Take one small step toward your goal, and let that momentum carry you forward. The journey won’t just change your health; it will transform your life.

References:

Deci, E. L., & Ryan, R. M. (1985). “Intrinsic Motivation and Self-Determination in Human Behavior.”
American Psychological Association. “The Science of Goal Setting and Achievement.” 2025.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Strategies for Healthy Living.” 2025.
Harvard Business Review. “The Power of Small Wins.” 2025.

The Blood Sugar Solution is an 8-week program designed to empower women, especially those over 40, to take control of Type 2 diabetes using a comprehensive and practical approach. Combining expert guidance, evidence-based strategies, and the ADCES 7 principles of diabetes self-management, this program teaches you everything you need to manage blood sugar effectively, reduce medication dependence, and feel your best during life transitions like perimenopause and menopause. Through live sessions, pre-recorded lessons, and actionable tools, you’ll gain the knowledge and support needed to transform your health for good.