“A reward is earned, never given.” - Kelsey Sheahan

Introduction:

What Scooby-Doo Can Teach You About Reaching Your Goals

Scooby-Doo is the longest-running cartoon on television, having started in 1969. It's a cartoon comedy based on 4 teenage friends and a goofy dog named Scoobert “Scooby” Doo who bring villains to justice. While the show brings laughter and fun to the viewers as they watch them clumsily solve mysteries, it can also help solve the mystery of how high achievers reach their goals. 

“Ruh?” Scooby would say.

Yes, read on….

It can be difficult to determine what you want from life and your priorities. And even when determining your goals, you can often encounter obstacles or lose motivation.

Yet, Scooby and his friends stay on the trail even when trapped in haunted houses and chased by no-faced zombies.

Have a little fun while you prepare yourself to succeed. See what Scooby-Doo can teach you about reaching your goals.

Facing Your Fears:

Scooby Doo, a cowardly Great Dane, shakes and shivers but doesn’t run away from scary situations. While it’s natural to want to avoid your triggers, confronting them reduces your anxiety.

1. Think positive. Weigh the consequences of your actions. Pay equal attention to what you have to gain instead of thinking only about the risks. Boost your energy by visualizing what you want.
   
   

2. Focus on solutions. It’s easy to come up with excuses when you’re fearful. Use them to your advantage by developing a specific strategy for each. Plan and prepare ahead.
   
   

3. Learn from experience. You may fall short of expectations sometimes. Enjoy the journey, and give yourself credit for trying. We learn best from doing.
   
   

4. Practice self-care. Healthy lifestyle habits make you less vulnerable to anxiety. Eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly, get proper rest and sleep, and manage stress constructively.
   
   

Giving Yourself Rewards:

What can you do when the finish line is still far off, and you feel like quitting? Promise yourself a “Scooby snack” or the incentive of your choice.

1. Make it relevant. Consider rewards that align with your goals, enabling you to invest in yourself. For example, if you’re committed to exercising regularly, treat yourself to new fitness gear.
   
   

2. Mix it up. If your rewards are losing their appeal, you may need more variety. Make a list of ideas you can choose from. Ensure they are rewards you desire and thus, will work hard for.
   
   

3. Adjust the scale. Some accomplishments are bigger than others. Break your goals into “bite-size” steps so you can have little victories and major feats. It’s easier and more fun this way.
   
   

4. Stick to your budget. You can reward yourself without running up your credit cards. Some of life’s greatest pleasures are free or cost very little. Allow yourself to sleep in for an extra hour on a cold winter morning. Check a community calendar for free concerts and other events.

Collaborating With Others:

One of the original charms of Scooby Doo was the way it brought together kids you wouldn’t expect to see at the same lunch table. Who knew an athlete, a popular girl, a bookworm, a hippy, and a talking Great Dane would make such an amazing team?

1. Clarify roles. Maximize your performance by defining roles and responsibilities. Give each member an opportunity to contribute their individual strengths.
   
   

2. Build relationships. Treat each other with kindness and respect. When you see someone struggling, offer to help out. Earn trust by following up on your commitments. Create connections by spending time together and cultivating appreciation.
   
   

3. Communicate openly. Be tactful and assertive. Share information honestly and consistently. Ask others for feedback and be willing to give them constructive input too. Show your coworkers that you care about them by listening attentively to what they say.
   
   

4. Celebrate diversity. Many studies confirm the advantages of bringing together team members from different backgrounds. You’re likely to think more creatively and enjoy various skills.

Borrow Scooby-Doo’s secrets for success. Set meaningful goals and take concrete steps to reach them.

And “Scooby-Dooby-Doo” your way to success!

Interesting Fun Fact:

The creator of Scooby, Iwao Takamoto, an animator at Hanna-Barbera, was inspired by a Great Dane he owned and because a coworker of his was a breeder of Danes. After speaking with a Great Dane breeder about the desirable traits for a pedigree Great Dane, Iwao decided to draw the opposite. So, instead of the mighty “Apollo of Dog” traits typical for a Dane, Scooby has a sloped back, bowed legs, small chin, long tail and unusual coloring. He even has an Adam’s apple!

Yet for those who grew up watching Saturday morning cartoons in the 70’s and up to now, everyone will agree that he is a fun-loving and memorable character that we all adore!