The Art of Goal-setting

If you feel you are not movingin the right direction in life, or you are confused about your future or you seem to be under-achieving then this post is specifically for you.

Everybody wants to be successful and it could be frustrating when things aren’t going our way or when we don’t feel in control of the progression of our lives. The answer is straightforward:

                                                                                                     The key to success is setting goals

Goal-setting in its own is an art, as it needs continuous rehearsal before one can fully yield and appreciate the benefits. Here are a few tips to effective goal-setting:

1. Write them down 

The first and probably most important step to achieving your goals is to write them down. In a diary, on your phone, anywhere! Write them down in order as well. Preferably according to priority. Write them somewhere that is easily accessible so they act as a constant reminder of what you want.

2. Be sincere with yourself

Make sure these goals you’ve written down are what you really want and within your capacity. Know your limits. Ask yourself each day, “what can I do today to get me closer to my ultimate goal?” when you get the answer, DO IT.

3. Set clear goals

Be specific when writing your goals. You shouldn’t just “want to be rich”, that’s not specific enough. Start step by step with reasonable and clear planning such as “in 3 months i would like to achieve X amount of money in my savings”. Write exactly what you want to achieve and when you want to achieve it. Set short-term goals and long-term goals as clearly as you can. Also be concise so you often have them all in mind.

4. Tell a few close friends about it

Whether it’s family or your closest friends, tell them about your goals. The support you may get from them would help you and give you more confidence. They could also help by suggesting other ways to achieve your goals which you may not have realized. But don’t tell too many people as you could get carried away. Tell a few, maybe 2 or 3 close and positive people. It is important to keep positive people around you and stay focused.

5. Have a strong mind

Once you have set a specific goal that you know you can achieve, hold it dearly. Refuse to be talked out of it. Do not be influenced by what others seem to be doing that’s working for them or people who tell you that you cannot do it. Stay focused.

6. Stay mindful of your progress

It is vital that you gauge your progress as often as you can. Whether by ticking boxes or cancelling your achievements. It enables you to complete short term goals and shows you how close or how far you really are from achieving long terms goals. This gives you a real view of your progress.

7. Set yourself up for success

Don’t distract yourself with other unnecessary things and don’t spend too much time in leisure. Discipline is very important if one is serious about achieving their goals. Put yourself in situations that will help you get a step closer to your goals. Places you go, people you meet, the things you discuss, what you wear and things you spend your time doing should all be pushing you to achieve your potential.