Successful Goal Setting
By Andrew May
In last weeks column I spoke about the top 5 goal setting flops. This week we have a proven strategy to help you not only set, but also achieve your personal goals.
1. Ask the right questions
* What do you really want and why do you want to achieve it?
* How much does this really mean to you?
* What are the benefits of achieving this goal?
* Who else does this affect/impact?
* Are you really prepared to do what it takes?
2. Involve significant others
Enlist the support any buy-in from your partner, significant others, family, friends, colleagues etc.
3. Get Anchored
Write your goals down on a sheet of paper, simplify them into point format and then put in a place you will regularly see them. E.g. your diary, in the office, in the car, the bathroom, etc.
4. Small bytes
Leading psychologist George Miller believes we can only deal with 7 bits of information at any one time. Keep goals down to a manageable number and group similar areas.
5. Set a plan
After writing your goals down, work out a specific plan. Identify the key steps you need to take towards accomplishing your goal and assign specific dates.
6. Project the future
Review your goals at least every 7 days. Don’t leave it for another 365 days. Think what it is going to be like once you have successfully achieved your goals. How are you going to feel?
7. Reward yourself
It is important to reward yourself along the way as you tick off your action plan. Give yourself a pat on the back for sticking to the process.
Human beings make mistakes so don’t beat yourself up if you lose focus. If you find yourself relapsing sit down and go through the goal setting process again starting at step 1.