Become a Successful Goal Setter
Do you ever feel like nothing you set your mind to can be achieved? It's certainly not very motivating to see your dreams and wishes evade you. But have you ever stopped to wonder why it happens?
Perhaps you’re having a challenge with how you go about setting goals. Sure you can identify something you want to achieve. But planning is also a vital step in the process.
Adopting an effective approach to goal setting is what really enables you to achieve whatever you want. Wanting something is the first step. Deciding on a feasible plan of action and then following it is what it takes you all the way to the finish line.
Implement this action plan to become a successful goal setter:
Determine your motive. When going through the process of setting goals, ask yourself why. Why is this particular goal important to you? How would this goal grow you to who you want to be, or where you want to be?
Is the goal benefitting you? Or are you doing it to make somebody else happy? Take the time to determine what the goal really means to you.
Your goals ought to make you happy. Sure, it's nice to make others happy. But spending your life always focusing on others prevents you from reaching your fullest potential. You have a purpose, those who really care about you want to see you succeed and fulfill your dreams.
Is it possible to "adjust" the goal based on whether or not it's well thought out to begin with? Some goals pop up on a whim. Those are the ones that usually need more thought!
Set realistic timelines. Setting realistic timelines can mean the difference between achieving a goal and losing the opportunity. True, you may be filled with excitement now, but that excitement won’t last long if your steps to your goal are unachievable.
Once your goal is realistic, it’s attainable. Be realistic with the time and steps you set to achieve it.
Break it up into smaller objectives. Those are easier to view as achievements. That way, you can plot your path and monitor it. Don’t forget to acknowledge those milestones, they will keep you motivated for the next.
Remember that you have the other parts of your life to concentrate on as well. Balance & prioritize working toward your goal with everything else that's important to you.
Identify a support group. Goal setters need the support of close friends, family,fellowship and business associates. This support can keep you going when you start to doubt yourself.
Apart from providing encouragement, a support group can bring new ideas. Collective minds produce successful ideas! It’s time to build your tribe!
Ask your supporters for advice about your goals and plan of action. Fill them in on your next idea so they can give you constructive criticism, and even better if you can pray together, for one another.
When you reach your goal, remember to extend your gratitude. Let them know how much you appreciate their support. And return the favor whenever the opportunity presents itself. “Now the One who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your seed and increase the harvest of your righteousness. You will be enriched in everything for all generosity, which through us brings about thanksgiving to God.” 2 Corinthians 9:10-11
Celebrate yourself with a little something for your small milestones. A great way to stay motivated is to reward yourself. As soon as you've hit one of those milestones, celebrate!
Invite your support group members to celebrate with you. Or, you can celebrate on your own. Whichever way, highlight those mini goals.
The journey ahead isn’t so intimidating when you recognize how far you've gotten.
Avoid focusing on the long journey ahead of you for a long-term goal. Keep your attention on the small objectives so you don’t feel overwhelmed.
Always look at your goals in your own context and avoid comparing what you've achieved with anybody else's achievements. We all have our own journey and something greater planned for us in our purpose.
Above all, be kind to yourself! Acknowledge that you've already accomplished so much just by being a happy, driven individual. Just being here, reading this speaks louder to the calling on your heart. Having that inner peace is a goal that's worth celebrating every day. Keep your head up and your heart passionate. Everything else will fall into place naturally!
Live Intentionally Focused and see where God leads you…
