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Wondering how to effectively set goals that you actually follow through on?

 

Setting goals may seem easy, but oftentimes, many are lost in the cycle of setting the same goals every year. You may begin a year with a strong determination and willpower to pour yourself out achieve some goals. This may move you to set some goals and be determined at that instance. Sadly, the determination maybe short-lived, and then you see yourself setting the same goal again another year.

Millions of people also face this problem; setting a goal and finding it difficult to see it through. Are they just like you—also doing something wrong? is there a solution? Before we get into the details, let’s examine what it means to set goals.

 What it Means to Set Goals

Setting a goal is a process. It involves discerning an objective or singling out a skill, then making a plan to achieve it—and lastly, ensuring you see it through till it’s achieved.

From the definition above, it’s apparent that setting a goal is beyond mental imagination, preparation, and determination. As we progress, we will see why goal setting transcends mental task to include the other necessary steps.

Is Goal Setting Important?

Goal setting is one of the best ways to live. Of course, you are allowed to be spontaneous and enjoy life. However, when you set a goal the decisions you make will tilt more in the direction of achieving that goal.  Goals give meaning to life—a sense of direction, of purpose, and most importantly increase one’s happiness. Let’s enumerate the seven key steps to always keep in mind when setting a goal.

Think About the Result

 

One of the best ways to stay on course while trying to achieve a goal is thinking about the result. The result can motivate you in difficult times to keep going. This simply means that, if the result is not so important, then the possibility of stopping halfway through is high.

So, before you pick an objective and add to your goals, visualize the result. Ask questions like” Is this what I truly what? Will the time and effort I devote worth it? This type of analysis will help you streamline the number and types of goals your set. If it’s not worth it, then don’t include it.

Don’t Create a Vague Goal

Vague goals are the types that are not specific, can’t be measured, not attainable, not time-bound, and also unrealistic. A vague goal will give no sense of accomplishment, and most times, this type is often abandoned halfway. Instead of a vague goal try to set one that is realistic and definitely measurable. For example, instead of saying I want to learn how to speak French in 6 months, break it down. Set a goal to learn all the elementary parts in the first 3-weeks.  Then the greetings in the week that follows, and in that pattern forward.

Pen Down Your Goals

We think about hundreds of things in a day. Even at resting periods, our mind is never at rest. Due to this, it always easy to forget things we set our minds to do. Coupled with pressures from daily activities, it only gets worse. Given this, it’s advisable and reasonable to pen our goals down. Get small sticky papers, write your goals on them, and stick them on a board, the wall, or any other place where you’ll easily see it. Doing this, even in busy moments, the papers will serve as reminders to stay on course.

Action Strategy

It’s one thing to set goals and an entirely different thing to achieve it. Setting a goal isn’t complete without having an action plan. You can set a goal of learning a new language. But, what is your strategy to achieve it? Are you sticking to online classes? Will you get a personal tutor? Will you join a community of natives to ensure you keep speaking and hear people speak the language? Do you intend to set aside time to revisit all you learned in class?

Creating a plan will make achieving your goal more realistic and easy to meet.

Have a Timeline

A timeline is important in setting goals. Give yourself a deadline for each stage you’ve created. It will require breaking down the goal into a series of stages. Then attach a timeline to each stage. This helps to stay focused and track progress. Discipline yourself to adhere strictly to the timeline such that the next stage is not compromised—every stage gets ample time.

Action Time

 

Have a set day to start. Do not just follow all these steps to end up postponing when to start. You may have planned all the stages and put the number of hours, days, or weeks for each—but the day you intend starting needs to be picked also.  And when the day comes, do not hesitate! Jump right in!

Keep Track of Your Progress Progress is an excellent source of motivation—it helps you see how far you’ve gone, and be geared towards success. Set a day aside to keep track of all your goals. What percentage you are on each, and the possible steps that can be taken to remain focused and more determined.

Get More Help: Set Goals and Smash Them Like A Pro

Setting goals is key to being a successful entrepreneur— you attain success in many aspects of your life sooner and better.  So, don’t set goals the old and less efficient way. Start following these seven vital steps and create attainable goals that bring you towards success.

 

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