Smart Steps For Successful Goal Setting
Setting goals used to be scary for me because I didn’t really know how to create goals that fit – not too small or too extreme, yet still big enough to stretch me. But I recently began looking at goal setting the same way I look at taking a road trip, and suddenly the whole “ordeal” became much more like an adventure! Using this approach, you can easily quit “goal guessing” and start goal setting more wisely.
Envision the End
Where are you going? Researchers at the University Minnesota recently found that focusing on outcomes is beneficial to progress. So, begin setting goals by taking time to think about your destination. Don’t be afraid to use your imagination or to reclaim past dreams that have fallen away. I like to brainstorm and write down all the thoughts about where I want to be. The idea is to get what’s inside your soul onto paper! You can always fine-tune your arrival point – just don’t do so until after you see what’s in your heart!
Confirm Your Dates
Once you’ve settled on a destination, be sure you’re clear on the start date and on how soon you plan to realize your vision. Will you begin today or next month? What’s your total time frame? Six months is very different than two years, and the length of time you give yourself (or have been given by a supervisor, for instance) will help you set challenging goals that are still attainable – the most efficient route to your destination!
Map Out Your Journey
Any adventure will include stops along the way that help you to actually get where you’re going. Successful goals that lead you to realizing your vision are like gas, food and lodging on a road trip. If your vision is to be promoted to sous chef or to be chosen to perform in a major theatre play, what steps or goals will fuel your vision? Whether they include taking a special cooking class or interviewing several successful actors, just remember to attach a date to each goal so that you keep moving toward reaching your destination on time: Interview Alissa Actor by March 15th.
Share Your Journey with Someone
You may get sleepy along your pathway and the road may be rough in some places! Choose someone – a trusted friend, partner, or family member – to share your goals with so that they can ride with you in spirit. They will keep you “awake” by reminding you to stay focused, encouraging your creativity, and challenging you to do what it takes to get where you’re going!
Keep Your Map Close By!
On an unfamiliar road trip, you need your map or GPS in order to stay on the right path and be alerted of alternative routes when necessary. As you embark on realizing your vision, carry your written destination and goals with you! Review them daily to track your progress and to make adjustments in your activity level whenever necessary.
So, what’s your next destination?
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