So far in this series on goal setting, we’ve gotten started with the goal setting process and made sure all of our goals are SMART. Now, it’s time to boost our chances for success at achieving each one of our goals.
1. Make a Commitment
Goals require commitment and dedication. There’s no other way around it. If you are struggling with committing to a specific goal, go back and start the process over. You may not have identified the goal just right, or you may be lacking the necessary motivation to see it though.2. Keep Track of Your Progress
Just as it’s important to put all of your goals down on paper, it’s equally important to track your progress. You can do this with a goal tracking worksheet, a goal management tool or a method of your own. The key is to regularly check-in on your goal progress and take note of where you are and where you need to go before your next check-in.3. Break It Down
It’s good to have big and very ambitious goals, but many times, you can make them more attainable and realistic by breaking them down. A set of five smaller goals that will get you to your ambitious goal can be a lot more manageable and a lot less overwhelming.4. Get Help
You may need external support to accomplish your goals, or maybe you are struggling with the commitment factor and need someone to hold you accountable. While your goals may be personal to you, that doesn’t mean you have to do it alone. If you need help, support or just a cheerleader, ask someone your trust.5. Be Willing to Revisit and Revise
Your regular goal check-in process is the perfect time to consider if the path you’re taking to accomplish your goals is valid. You may find that you have more clarity after you’ve outlined your goal. It’s okay to make changes and modifications, as long as they support what you set out to do.6. Keep Your Eye on the Prize
Thinking about the big picture is important, especially with long-term goals. While there will be times when you’ll be so focused on working to move forward that you may not consider the end result, it’s necessary to take time to think about where you’re going. Envisioning your success can help keep you motivated.7. Be Consistent
Consistency and routine can play an important role in reaching your goals. Be consistent when you have progress check-ins, how you track your advancement, and how and when you focus on your goals. The more routine you can make the process, the easier it will be to keep going.8. Let Your Goals Grow Up
Life changes and so will your goals. You may have a few long-term goals that span the next few years, but if you consider them set in stone, you may miss out on modifying your plan to fit current business, lifestyle and societal changes. In order to keep your goals relevant and realistic, let them change and grow as you do the same.9. Focus on Positive Thinking
As cliché as it may be, positive thinking can empower you to reach success. If you consistently think negatively, you may be sabotaging your entire goal process. Positive thinking and self-affirming mantras really can get you through the most challenging parts of reaching your goals.10. Celebrate Every Success
You can’t expect yourself to work steadily toward a goal without any type of reward along the way. Not only is that bad for your morale, but it can diminish the power of the entire process. Take time to celebrate every success for every goal, no matter how big or small. It will build your confidence and commitment and make it easier to keep pushing to reach those large-scale future goals. What do you do to ensure your own success? Are there certain processes that you use to make it easier to strive for even the most ambitious goals? Image credit: Jolka IgolkaFrequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Achieving Goals
What are some effective strategies for setting achievable goals?
Setting achievable goals involves a few key strategies. Firstly, it’s important to make your goals specific. Instead of saying “I want to lose weight,” specify how much weight you want to lose and by when. Secondly, ensure your goals are measurable. This means setting a clear target that you can track your progress against. Thirdly, your goals should be attainable. While it’s good to aim high, setting unrealistic goals can lead to disappointment and demotivation. Lastly, your goals should be relevant to your overall life objectives and time-bound, meaning they have a clear deadline.
How can I stay motivated to achieve my goals?
Staying motivated can be challenging, especially when progress is slow. However, there are several strategies you can use. One is to break your goals down into smaller, manageable tasks. This makes them seem less overwhelming and allows you to celebrate small victories along the way. Another strategy is to visualize your success. Imagine how you will feel once you’ve achieved your goal and use this as motivation. Finally, don’t be too hard on yourself if you experience setbacks. They’re a normal part of the process and can be used as learning opportunities.
What role does self-discipline play in achieving goals?
Self-discipline is crucial in achieving goals. It involves the ability to control one’s feelings and overcome weaknesses. It also means being able to pursue what one thinks is right despite temptations to abandon it. Without self-discipline, it’s easy to fall into procrastination and lose sight of your goals. Developing self-discipline can be challenging, but it’s a skill that can be improved over time with practice and perseverance.
How can I handle setbacks when trying to achieve my goals?
Setbacks are a normal part of the journey towards achieving goals. When faced with a setback, it’s important to maintain a positive mindset. Instead of viewing it as a failure, see it as a learning opportunity. Analyze what went wrong and how you can avoid similar mistakes in the future. Remember, every setback is a step closer to success.
How can I ensure that my goals align with my values and long-term vision?
Ensuring that your goals align with your values and long-term vision involves some introspection. Consider what’s most important to you and what you want to achieve in the long run. Your goals should reflect these values and contribute to your overall vision for your life. If a goal doesn’t align with your values or long-term vision, it may be worth reconsidering it.
How can I balance multiple goals at once?
Balancing multiple goals requires good time management and prioritization skills. Start by identifying which goals are most important to you and focus on those first. It’s also helpful to break each goal down into smaller tasks and tackle them one at a time. Remember, it’s okay to adjust your goals as needed. Life is dynamic and your goals should be too.
How can I stay focused on my goals?
Staying focused on your goals can be challenging, especially in a world full of distractions. However, there are several strategies you can use. One is to regularly remind yourself of why you set your goals in the first place. Another is to visualize your success. Finally, try to eliminate distractions as much as possible. This might mean turning off your phone notifications while you work or setting aside specific times each day to focus on your goals.
How can I measure my progress towards my goals?
Measuring progress towards your goals is crucial for staying motivated and on track. One effective method is to break your goal down into smaller, measurable tasks. Each time you complete a task, you’re making progress towards your goal. You can also use tools like journals or apps to track your progress and celebrate your achievements along the way.
How can I maintain a positive mindset when working towards my goals?
Maintaining a positive mindset involves focusing on the progress you’re making, rather than the end result. Celebrate small victories and use setbacks as learning opportunities. It’s also important to practice self-care and ensure you’re taking care of your physical and mental health. Remember, achieving your goals is a journey, not a destination.
How can I overcome fear of failure when working towards my goals?
Overcoming fear of failure involves changing your perspective on what failure means. Instead of seeing it as a negative outcome, view it as a learning opportunity. Each failure brings you one step closer to success. It’s also helpful to set realistic goals and break them down into manageable tasks. This can make the process seem less overwhelming and reduce the fear of failure.
Alyssa GregoryAlyssa Gregory is a digital and content marketer, small business consultant, and the founder of the Small Business Bonfire — a social, educational and collaborative community for entrepreneurs.
