Originally published as one of the topics of my newsletter edition #2. Get new editions weekly together with bonus Ultimate Professional Networking Cheatsheet!

Do you know what is one of the best things about being a woman who codes? That you can achieve your goals through code: build a career, become an entrepreneur, create a community, teach people, etc.

I am happy that I was so naive at the beginning of my programming journey because knowing so little back then gave me the motivation to think critically about everything I learned later on.

Learning to code (especially to the point where you can start doing what you want) is a lot of work.

It takes time and a lot of discipline, but it is possible.

Unfortunately, too many people make the mistake of doing almost enough work to get where they want and give up in front of the final step to their success.

If you have embarked on a journey to realize your goals and aspirations, I present you simple but extremely powerful ways that can help you stay focused on your goals in life:

Writing down your goals

Before you start chasing your goals, it is better to write them down, get some clarity, and then begin your hustle.

Seeing your goals written down in your own handwriting has a powerful effect on your mind by providing stimulus to your brain. This will help you define a framework or an action plan for it.

Since the beginning of my career, I have been writing down whatever I have wanted. And honestly, I have managed to accomplish eighty percent of them.

Getting priorities straight

You have to be clear about your goals before you start pursuing them. After you have written down your goals, it is time to get serious about them.

Break down your goals and be as specific as possible. Set your priorities straight from day one. Decide what the things that can’t be compromised and prepare your brain to be focused on your mission are.

When you are making changes to your life, it is essential to know what is most valuable to you and what is not.

Aligning habits with the goals

The secret to success lies in things we do regularly a.k.a our habits.

The habits we have formed over the years can either be a catalyst for our goals or an obstacle.

When you change your habits and align them with your goals, you are creating an action plan that is definitely leading to success, sooner or later.

Not comparing to what others are doing

This one is more of a psychological trick than a physical one.

Oftentimes, our constant comparisons are holding us back from achieving our goals.

You are not alone if you are thinking that others have always got it easier than you. We all feel like that, no matter how wrong we are while thinking so.

Train your brain to see the brighter side - no matter what.

Instead of spending time in analyzing who is doing what, focus on how you can outsmart yourself.

Whatever you want to be, remember that you are 100% in the driver's seat of your own life. Don't spend any time or energy living up to what someone else thinks you should be. You need to be happy with the goal that you are trying to achieve.

For example, to become a software engineer or a world-class chef. Or maybe a president of your country. 🙈

Ilona helps women developers to succeed in their careers without stress via her weekly newsletter. Sign up and grab her networking cheat sheet as a bonus here.