Topic 1.1.3 Strategic Planning – Phrasal Verbs

Sample answers

1. When I need to make an important decision, I zero in on my core values and long-term goals. I start by listing what matters most to me—like family, health, and personal growth. Then, I weigh my options against these priorities. Meditation and journaling also help me maintain focus by clearing my mind and allowing me to reflect on what truly matters.
2. For me, personal challenges often boil down to a lack of balance between my expectations and reality. I tend to be hard on myself, so when I face a challenge, I try to step back and assess whether I’m being realistic. Tackling the core issue involves adjusting my expectations and practicing self-compassion.
3. Yes, I decided to double down on learning guitar a few years ago. I’d always enjoyed playing casually, but I wanted to improve, so I started dedicating more time to practice. The decision came after realizing how much joy it brought me. Doubling down on it has not only improved my skills but also provided a creative outlet that helps me relax.
4. I would scale up my efforts in health, specifically in maintaining a consistent exercise routine. While I already work out a few times a week, scaling up would mean committing to daily exercise and improving my diet. This focus would help me build more energy, improve mental clarity, and increase overall well-being.
5. I’d like to cut back on-screen time, particularly social media use. It’s easy to lose track of time scrolling, which takes away from activities I value more, like reading or spending time outdoors. To do this, I’ve started setting screen time limits on my phone and replacing that habit with more engaging activities like cooking or going for a walk.
6. I’ve been trying to phase out my habit of late-night snacking. It was impacting my sleep and overall health. I started by setting a rule not to eat after 8 p.m. and replacing snacks with herbal tea. Gradually, I noticed my cravings reduced, and I’m sleeping better as a result.
7. The most challenging details to iron out when planning a trip are usually the logistics, like coordinating travel times and accommodation. To ensure everything goes smoothly, I create a detailed itinerary, book accommodations and transportation well in advance, and have a backup plan in case of unexpected changes.
8. I once had to back down on my goal to complete a marathon. I trained hard, but a knee injury forced me to reconsider. I realized that pushing through could lead to long-term damage. Backing down taught me the importance of listening to my body and knowing when to prioritize long-term health over immediate goals.
9. In uncertain situations, I like to have a basic plan, but I leave room to adapt as things unfold. For example, when traveling, I plan the major details like flights and accommodations but leave the daily activities more flexible. This approach allows me to make the most of opportunities that arise while still feeling prepared.
10. I usually roll out new habits gradually. For instance, when I wanted to start waking up earlier, I began by setting my alarm 15 minutes earlier each week rather than making a drastic change. This gradual approach makes the transition smoother and helps the habit stick over the long term.