Jump into January - Goal setting

goals image.jpg

Goal definition according to Wikipedia; A goal is an idea of the future or desired result that a person or a group of people envisions, plans and commits to achieve.

People endeavour to reach goals within a finite time by setting deadlines.

 

We are all guilty of setting New Years resolutions - the “new year, new me” scenario. According to research only 8% of people achieve their New Years resolutions.

Lets start with shifting how you think, we need to lose the doubt or as some experts refer to as a “goal toxin”. They encourage you to think about thoughts that are holding you back and swap them for thoughts that encourage you to move forward.

When you start planning out your goals, why not make them SMART?

S - specific, significant, stretching

M - measurable, meaningful, motivational

A - agreed upon, attainable, achievable, acceptable, action-oriented

R - realistic, relevant, reasonable, rewarding, results-oriented

T - time-based, time-bound, timely, tangible, trackable

Specific

  • There are two types of goals; general and specific. General goals are just that. They only cover the end goal and none of the steps required along the way. A specific goal, however, will outline the process and the steps on how to achieve said specific goal.

Measurable

  • A goal should be easy to measure, so you can chart your progress along the way.

Attainable

  • Pick goals that you are willing to work for, and that you're going to stick with. Don't force yourself to become better at a hobby. If you're not going in with passion, you more than likely won't stick to achieving your goal.

Realistic

  • When you set your goal, make sure that it’s realistic. Goals should be challenging, not impossible.

Timely

  • Set an end date on when you would like to achieve your goal. Note to self...never use the phrases "one day I want to..." or "I want to eventually”. Again, you won't stick to achieving your goal. Set yourself a time-frame instead (no more excuses or putting your goal off – this time, you are going to get s#!t done!).

To help with setting your goals, here are a few tips to get you started;

  • Think about your goal from start to finish, and plan out how to do it. Try to sum it up in 1-3 sentences while planning everything out. Keep simplicity in mind: simple to remember, simple to follow.

  • SMART goals work best if you're willing to stay committed. Get yourself a day planner to help you stay on track. Write your goal on the inside page, as well as the steps involved. Track your progress as you go along.

  • Measure carefully. It's easier to keep a goal if you witness all the progress you have made, rather than just occasionally checking in when you remember.

  • Write out a mission statement and place it where you can see it. Reminding yourself of why you're doing something is a great way to stay motivated.

  • Before setting a goal, ask yourself why you're doing it. If the answer does not come back as "for me," you might want to reconsider.

  • Don't be afraid to ask for help. Friends and family are often more willing than you expect to help you stay on track.

  • If you're having trouble reaching your goal, don't be afraid to extend your time frame a little.

  • If you achieve your goal early, you might want to continue on until your finished date. Especially if this involves saving money. Just think how much nicer it will be to have a little more saved up when the last day comes (#winning).

So, now you have the motivation (hopefully) and the tools to set some SMART goals of your own! What are you waiting for?! You have nothing to lose and everything to gain! Get out there and kick your goal’s butt! You've got this!

Mel KiloJanuary, goals, Goals, Set goals, boundaries