Becoming Aware of Opportunities

As people become more aware of how their values generate behavioral goals, they feel motivation to explore who they want to become. They find strength in clearly identifying their choices. “This is me; and I will work to become a better me!”

Part of the feeling of depression is not being aware of your path. If you don’t have clear goals it is easy to slip into the mistake of looking at the past. “I did those things so I am a failure. I’m just not a good person.” The feeling of anxiety is similar. If you are not in control of your life plan, then the future looks scary. Anxiety can stem from looking at the future rather than the present moment. Having a dashboard, with your goals in view, helps to focus your behavior in the present moment.

I like to help people think in terms of opportunities. Where in your life are there opportunities to demonstrate who you are? What are the contexts that provide you with the best opportunities to practice your behavioral goals?

This focuses you on the life that is right in front of you. Your time with friends, family, co-workers, or clients can be more than just discreet experiences. They can be very focused opportunities. They can prompt you to be in line with who you choose to be. Goals need a place to thrive. Starting out in therapy can be scary without having a clear focus on what you want to develop in yourself. Part of that is understanding that there are always opportunities to build your life in the direction you choose.

When we began to see ourselves looking for opportunities, our lives become more hopeful. We think in terms of utilization of skills and behaviors. “I have these new tools, so where am I going to use them.” As you begin to live a more value-driven life, you will start creating more opportunities. Your actions become more important to you. As you demonstrate who you are with strong intention and commitment, you feel better. It is then that you want to create your future, not just experience it.