How important is goal setting to actually achieving what you want? Goal setting is the map that will get you there, it is your GPS. Without it you may drive around in circles, let me explain. So let’s say I want to lose weight. I can walk around for the next year wanting and wishing that I lose weight but it is not too likely to happen. Why? I have not set up my goal for it.
If you ask, how important is goal setting? In this case, it is very important. My success must met the five criteria for setting effective goals: set precise or specific goals; ; write down the goals, make sure they are measurable and keep the goals small and realistic, thus easier to achieve.
If I want to be successful, I would first write down: I want to lose 10 lbs in the next 3 months. I would then brainstorm how I can do this. I will walk for 30 minutes every day, I will reduce my portion size by 25%, I will track my food intake on FitnessPal and adhere to the calorie count etc.. I now have a plan to achieve my goal, a timeline and small steps I can take to get there. Oh and my scale – will keep me accountable.
Why do we need to set goals to achieve? Without goals, there is no direction; no focus; no reason to become involved in anything worthwhile. More importantly, controlling that which we wish to achieve is how we live; how we operate our business; how we win a race; how we can enhance our skills; our performance; and how we gain self-confidence.
Goals must be specific; not unrealistic. To say you will become a millionaire in a year is a goal you may not meet. However, if the measure of success is reasonable, it can be attainable using your own standards for success.
A year from now you may wish you had started today.
― Karen Lamb
The pressures of society to amass great wealth in the shortest amount of time are based upon other’s goals and desires, not yours. You must have a clear understanding of what goals you are trying to achieve, and exhibit the skills and knowledge to achieve them. Achieving goals based on one particular event does not in any way ensure success in another.
Grabbing the brass ring can be difficult. It may be just out of reach, but is attainable. Use the same analogy in achieving your goals. Set them just out of reach, but within your grasp; giving you the determination and commitment to reach for it. Keep yourself healthy, fit and free of diversions. Focus on the goal; and never lose sight of it.
Ensure you acquire the skills needed to achieve the goal. Gather as much information and knowledge as you can. Ask for help whenever you need to; it is not a sign of weakness. Use whatever resources are available to you; make lists along the way.
Many times ideas may crop up which will bring you closer to your goal. Never assume anything. Research every possibility. If a particular idea doesn’t pan out, try another; and another. Don’t give up; or give in.
Most everyone has a goal in life, from losing weight to winning the Super Bowl. Keep in mind, however, sometimes life gets in the way of the very thing you are trying to achieve. It may be a momentary set-back, but don’t give up the dream, the goal, or the path that will lead you to it.
I find as I get older, it becomes even more important to have something that I really want to accomplish and to relish in the success when I do. So how important is goal setting? It is the first step in achieving your dreams!