Goal Setting Techniques
In order to achieve any goal, you have to first know exactly what you’re trying to achieve. And by all means, you must be specific. Most of us make the mistake of being vague with our goals. We say things like:
“I want to lose weight”, “I want more money”, “I want a better job” or “I want to be happy”.
That’s like going into a restaurant and telling the waitress, “I want something to eat.†You’ll need to be a lot more specific when you set your goals. Each goal you set should include this information:
- What
- Where
- How
- Whom (if others are involved or affected)
- When
- Why
Here is brief explanation of each point:
What: this should identify the “meat†of your goal. What you want to accomplish.
Where: location, if applicable (like getting a job in your local area or moving to a new area).
How: you may have a preference as to “how†events will unfold (this may not always be within your control, but a having a general expectation is good).
Whom: if your goals involve others, you’ll want to highlight your expectations.
When: a general time line for the fulfillment of your goals.
Why: your reasons for wanting to achieve your goals. Be very specific on these reasons and try to focus on the BENEFITS (the positive gains), not just the avoidance of what you do not want. Instead of saying, “I don’t want to be broke anymore†you should word it more positively: “I want to have an abundant flow of money.â€
Please do not proceed with the rest of your goal setting steps unless you are very clear about what you want to accomplish. Clarity is vital! A vague idea will not cut it; you’ll just end up wasting your time. Not only will you be confused about how to accomplish such a vague goal, you also won’t be able to generate the level of motivation and tenacity needed to see it through.
If you’re having trouble figuring out what you want, take the time to find out.
Think about every area of your life and ask yourself what you would change if you could. What would you ADD to your life, and what would you TAKE AWAY? This line of thought will lead you in the right direction for creating better circumstances.
Once you are crystal clear about what you want to accomplish, put it into a neat, concise statement. By writing down your goals and focusing on them daily, you will empower yourself and begin on your glorious pathway to success.
