It’s the last month of 2024, and many of us are setting ambitious goals.
But one of the biggest reasons we fail to stick to the actions required to reach those goals isn’t a lack of motivation or resources—it’s a failure to count the cost.
What Does "Counting the Cost" Mean?
We often assume that progress towards our goals will be a straight, easy path. But the truth is, every choice we make has an opportunity cost—sacrifices we must willingly accept to move forward.
If you set out on January 1st with well-intentioned actions but soon feel overwhelmed, frustrated, or impatient with the lack of results, it’s often because your expectations weren’t adequately set. You weren’t prepared for the challenges that were bound to come.
How to Count the Cost
Before jumping into your goals, ask yourself: What will it truly take to achieve this?
For example:
If your goal is to buy your first buy-to-let property, the cost might include financial investment, time spent on viewings and offers, sacrificing downtime with friends or Netflix, and navigating potential renovation challenges.
If you want to get fitter, the cost might be early mornings, meal planning, sore muscles, and saying no to tempting snacks.
Whatever your goal is, there will be sacrifices required. Identifying them early helps you set realistic expectations and prepare for the inevitable moments of resistance.
My Experience with Counting the Cost
When we decided to go all-in on property in 2018, we didn’t gloss over the sacrifices.
We anticipated the financial risks, the long hours, and the changes it would bring to our personal lives. Nearly six years later, the results have been worth every ounce of effort because we went into it fully prepared.
Counting the cost gave us the clarity and resilience to stick to the path, even when things got tough.
Set Your Expectations Now
Take some time to reflect on your goals for the year ahead. Ask yourself:
What are the financial, emotional, and time costs of pursuing this goal?
Am I willing to pay those costs?
How can I prepare myself for the challenges ahead?
When you go into your goals with clear expectations, you’re more likely to stay committed and see the process through to the end.
Choose to count the cost and pursue your goals willingly. It’s not just about knowing the price—it’s about paying it with purpose.
Are you ready to take that first step?
Curious how to apply this to your life? Why not get in touch with me on Instagram (@darren_green_coaching) or Linkedin (Darren Green PCC) and let's chat about how I can help you grow your professional and personal life!
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