To increase success on the journey to "more," we must focus on the mind in such a way that we are consciously aware, and directing the mind to produce results.  That in a nutshell, is mindset.

The mind wanders aimlessly and is cluttered with self-defeating chatter. Replacing that self-talk with a focused mindset (one we consciously direct) will ensure goals are realized.

These are the Mindset Tools I've used to achieve goals, despite massive setbacks along the way:

1) Clarity is the Compass:

It is impossible to achieve success without knowing what you want, or why you want it.

Define what you want in the clearest of terms. Clarity is not the same as being specific. Set intentions from a place of clarity, rather than listing specific details.

What do you really want and why? Specific is a number on the scale or a clothing size. Clear is why you want to lose weight in the first place: such as to be healthy and fit.

Rather than a specific income or career goal, why do you want more success? A clear goal would be financial freedom, or to obtain a meaningful career, or to find a job where I am valued.

Clarity motivates. Know what you want and why you want it.

2) Mindset is the Map:

Believe it or not, we can choose thoughts and emotions. If the voice in your head is full of critical nonsense, you can train yourself to release those thoughts and replace them with positive thoughts and emotions.

Several years ago, I was introduced to a game-changing book, The Untethered Soul by Michael A. Singer. The book explains what that voice in our head is about and how to release thoughts and emotions that don't serve our desires. If self-talk is defeating you, this is the book to release you from those chains. It released mine.

3) Recommit Repeatedly:

One of the biggest challenges to real transformation is that we don't understand the difference between a decision and a choice.

Decisions are well thought out, made with the best of intentions, and usually focused on longer-term goals. Career, finance, and health are examples of areas where we make decisions.

Choices, however, are made in the now, and are usually driven by emotions. What food I eat today, whether I exercise, if I spend or save...these are examples of choices.

For example: I can decide to get fit this year, but if I don't choose to eat healthy and exercise every day, then my goal will slip away.

Whatever your goal, set your mind (and a daily calendar reminder!) to make choices daily that are aligned with those goals!

4) Setbacks Strengthen:

Actions determine success with any endeavor. Intentions are an integral part of success, but we still have to take inspired action to achieve goals.

And that is where most resolutions go astray: between intent and the action.

Whatever your goal, setbacks are likely to happen because life has a way of throwing curve balls. And, sometimes actions are not always aligned with goals. Maybe we allowed emotions to get in the way, or daily stress caused us to make choices not in alignment with the decision.

This is called a setback, and honestly, it's a healthy part of all success.

When setbacks occur, release the tendency to judge yourself. Then make a note of why you made a poor choice, and commit to choose again, more wisely. Setbacks can strengthen, IF you release the tendency to judge yourself (which leads to a defeated mindset).

Instead, consciously choose to learn from the setback.

Motivate Your Mind

Mindset is training your mind to move toward the things you want, and away from self-defeating habits that keep you from achieving your desires.

Remember...our soul is designed for more. That ache inside is real. Never settle for anything other than your soul’s desire.