Life isn't like a box of chocolates

Forrest Gump famously compared life to a box of chocolates, but most boxes of chocolates come with something life doesn't: a key showing you what's inside. If life was like that, we'd at least have a clearer view of what we were supposed to be looking for in life and what parts of it we should be looking out for.

Without a clear idea of what we want, it can sometimes feel as though we're simply waiting to see what comes along.

What would it be like for you if you did have your own key? How would it be to have a piece of card that you could look at and think: "OK, today I'm going to have that milk chocolate one with the nutty centre"?

Now, imagine that nutty-centred chocolate is a certain goal you wanted in life. A goal can't guarantee exactly what you'll get, but being clearer about what you're aiming for can give you a better sense of direction.

What would be in your selection box?

What things do you want to happen in your life? With your life's "selection box", what goals would you fill each moulded plastic space with?

Imagine a life where you've got lots of small goals ready for you to choose from when you feel like a treat. Start by creating a clear picture in your mind, or on a piece of card, of what each goal might look like.

Ask yourself:

• What exactly do I want?
• How will I know when I've achieved it?
• When would I like to achieve it?
• Who else, if anyone, is involved?
• How might I feel when I have it?
• What will I notice has changed?
• How might my life be different?

Do this, and you'll have your selection box full of clearer ideas for goals and things you want in life, ready for when you want to start working towards them.

It can be easy to focus on big life goals and overlook the smaller ones that, together, may make just as meaningful a difference.

If you struggle to work out what you want on your own, coaching can provide space to explore your priorities and turn some of those ideas into clearer goals.