It is easy to feel stuck in life by knowing what you want to achieve but not knowing how to get there. Setting goals can feel like an overwhelming task. Without them however, you will lack focus and direction. Goal setting lets you determine your own success and plan for the future. Follow the steps below to accomplish your goals.
What is Goal Setting?
Have you ever wondered why you can not stick to your New Year’s Resolution? The answer is simple, resolutions are passive. The intention is there, but there is not any plan to make you follow through. Goal setting is active and can be defined as the process of deciding what to accomplish, then planning.
Steps to Achieving Your Goals
Set goals that motivate you. These goals should be ones that are of interest to you. If they are a high priority to you, then you will be motivated to achieve them. Write down why the goal is valuable to enforce commitment and urgency.
Set SMART goals. For a goal to be effective it must be SMART. SMART stands for:
Specific
Ambiguity is not desired when defining a goal. Make goals precise to provide direction.
Measurable
Always quantify goals to aid in measuring success. For example, if your goal is to save money how will you know if you have been successful? How much money are you trying to save? Is it hundreds or thousands of dollars? Quantifying a goal will make it more impactful.
Attainable
Remember that goals can be unattainable. If you strive to accomplish something unattainable you will only feel discouraged and unempowered. Consider your limitations but do not let them define you. Furthermore, do not set goals that are to simple to complete, you will only get bored as there is not much achievement in it.
Relevant
Set goals that benefit you. Evaluate why a goal is important. Once you identify the key benefit, incorporate it into the actual big picture goal.
Time Bound
Have a deadline to help eliminate any procrastination. This is also an important part of measuring success.
Write your goals down. Dr. Gail Matthews, a psychology professor at the Dominican University in California, conducted a study that concluded you are 42% more likely to achieve your goals if you write them down regularly.
Create regular check-ins. Goal setting is ongoing. Check on your progress from time to time to make sure you are still on the right track. You can use different tools such as an online calendar, planner, or smartphone to check your progress.
Celebrate wins. Even if small, it is important to acknowledge that you are moving in the right direction.
Ultimately, you have the power to make your goals happen. By following the steps listed above, you can define your success and achieve your goals.
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