Successful Goal Setting - How To Set Effective Goals

Goal setting is a powerful tool to help you make your dreams a reality

Tips for successful goal setting

Be decisive

Make a decision to pursue your goal. Decide what you want and why you want it, and then plan how you will make it happen.

Write your goal down

When you write your goal down it focuses your attention. When you write your goal in detail, it helps you to clarify your goal and gives your subconscious a set of instructions to work with.

Define your destination clearly

Once you know exactly where you're headed, it's easier to get there. When you have a clear destination you'll be able to point yourself in the right direction and it will be easier to see when you're getting off course and need to get back on track. 

Make a detailed plan

When you know exactly what you want, why you want it and what having it will give you, make a detailed plan. Work out the steps you need to take to achieve your goal and break each step into small doable steps. Plan what you will do and when you will do it. Actually schedule each of the steps.

Take regular sustained action to reach your goal

Make sure you take at least one small step towards achieving your goal every day. Take all the necessary actions, one step at a time and plan how you will overcome obstacles.

Get support

• What do you need to help you to achieve your goal?
• Do you need to learn new skills?
• What are you prepared to do less of so that you will have the time you need?

Ask for help when you need it and be prepared to learn from other people.

Build on your failures

Learn to see failure as a stepping stone to success. Change your perspective and try viewing obstacles as challenges. Whatever you do, don't give up. Remind yourself what you want, why you want it and what having it will give you. Don't let your feelings get in the way. If you're scared or bored or discouraged, push through and take the next steps regardless.

Have a plan for overcoming obstacles

Before you start, list potential obstacles and work out staginess for getting past them. If you develop contingency plans it will be easier to keep moving ahead towards your goals. Don't make excuses, keep your commitment to yourself and don't allow difficulties to stand in your way.

Decide how you will reward your efforts

Decide what your reward will be for staying on track and reaching your goal. The thought of a reward can often help you to keep going when things get tough.

Something to think about

If you're not actively involved in getting what you say you want, maybe you don't really want what you say you want, or maybe isn't as important as you think it is.

When you really want something you will take consistent action and make sure you get it. Now, go and set some goals.

A goal without a deadline is just a dream

If you'd like some help with setting effective goals check out How To Set and Achieve A Goal