Why Set Goals in Trauma Recovery?
Trauma can often make you feel like you’ve lost control of your life, leaving you feeling adrift in a sea of uncertainty. However, setting goals can restore a much-needed structure to your life, acting like a map that guides you through unfamiliar territory.
This process makes the often invisible journey of recovery visible and tangible, allowing you to see and measure your progress, which can be incredibly motivating. When you choose your own goals, it empowers you to take charge of your healing journey, helping you make proactive decisions about what’s important to you and the direction you want your life to take.
These steps are not just about recovery; they’re about taking back your power and redefining your path forward.
How to Set Effective Goals After Trauma
Start Small: Begin with small, achievable goals to avoid feeling overwhelmed. It could be as simple as “I will identify one trigger this week,” or “I will practice deep breathing for five minutes each day.”
Be Specific: Vague goals are hard to achieve. Instead of saying, “I will be happier,” specify what happiness looks like for you, like, “I will spend 20 minutes doing something I love every day.”
Make It Measurable: Ensure you can measure your goal. If your goal is about managing anxiety, it could be, “I aim to reduce my anxiety attacks from three times a week to once by practicing mindfulness daily.”
Set a Timeline: Deadlines create urgency and prompt action. For example, “By the end of this month, I will have attended three coaching sessions.”
Keep Track and Stay Flexible
Monitor Your Progress: Keep a journal or a simple note on your phone to track your progress. This can be a source of motivation as you look back and see how far you’ve come.
Be Flexible: It’s okay to adjust your goals. Recovery isn’t linear, and what you aim for might need to change as you evolve and learn more about yourself.
Celebrate Wins: No win is too small in trauma recovery. Celebrate every goal achieved, no matter how minor it may seem. This reinforces positive behavior and keeps you motivated.
Remember, the journey of trauma recovery is deeply personal and begins with you, but it doesn’t mean you have to go through it alone. Setting goals that reflect your individual needs is an essential part of this process, but finding support can make your path to healing more manageable and less daunting.
If you’re unsure where to start or find it challenging to set goals on your own, you should consider reaching out for support. At Trudi Bentley, we understand the nuances of trauma recovery and are here to help you set, pursue, and achieve your recovery goals with tailored guidance.
Ready to take a step forward in your trauma recovery?
Let Trudi guide you with compassion and expertise. Visit our website to learn more about how we can support your journey to healing. Together, we can make those goals a reality.
