5steps2

Got Goals?

Research has shown that less than 1% of the population actually understands how to effectively set a goal. This is why so many New Year’s resolutions are broken and why we try but keep failing to reach our goals. It is why internet beginners show lots of activity but never get anywhere.

Here are five steps to follow to set an effective goal:

1) It must be meaningful to you

You have to be the person to create it – not your spouse, boss or brother-in-law. The things you are investing your time and energy into should be things you are passionate about. When you reach this kind of goal, you will be happy about it.

2) Make it specific, timely, and measurable

I will lose 10 pounds by July 31st, 2008 is a goal because you will know at the end of July whether you did or did not achieve it. Don’t allow yourself to procrastinate because you haven’t set a target date.

3) Make it attainable and realistic

We all need to stretch to attain goals, but if they are unrealistic they lead to discouragement.. For instance, earning one million dollars by next year is unrealistic. On the other hand, if your goal lose 5 pounds by next Christmas, you have not stretched enough. Also, have a few reachable goals you are working toward, then set new ones as you progress.

4) Always write it down

This is helpful because the can be placed somewhere you can see them every day, to keep them top of mind. Studies have shown that the success rate in achievement of goals that are written down is much higher than if they are not.

5) Review it every week

This is different than step four; you must review your goals regularly to measure and monitor your progress. Course corrections can be made at each evaluation, adjustments that keep you on track toward your goals.

Positive results of achieving goals are unforgettable. Failure to achieve is seldom because we are incompetent. Rather, it is because we don’t know and apply the process of setting and reaching goals. Follow these steps and celebrate your successes to come.