Setting Goals can be a challenge for us all and I have always been bad at it. However, I have recently learned how to tackle this issue and what good goal-setting means. My usual pattern was to set a goal out there in oblivion (no timeline or specifics). Therefore it was never achieved. Surprise, Surprise, of course it wasn’t. How about you? How good are your goal-setting skills? As we enter 2024, give it some thought.
As 2024 begins, we all talk about our “New Year’s Resolutions”, but notoriously, those resolutions are only thought about for a few days or weeks and then forgotten. I want to change all of that. I, definitely, have dreams in my life that I want to achieve and I think it is time for a definitive plan. Join me in 2024; you will make your dreams come true, too.
The Journey Begins: Setting Purposeful Goals
The first task is to set purposeful goals, ones that will move me successfully toward my dreams. Think of these goals as a roadmap that leads you to your destination. The destination is when you complete your goals and are that much closer to achieving your dreams. And, just like the roadmap, you decide when you will reach your destination. Decide on a time and a specific date when your goals will be reached.
I have learned that the rule for goal setting is to be “specific and measurable”. For example, you can’t simply say, “I will work harder this year and make more money”. Rather, it should look more like this, “I will dedicate 2 extra hours a day to work and increase my income by $100 a month in 3 months”. This is just an example of “specific and measurable”. You would need to state it so it is reasonable and achievable for you. The key is to choose goals that coincide with your ambitions and values so they will serve as a strong source of motivation.
Hurdles on Your Road to Success: Navigating Obstacles
As we proceed on our journey toward our dreams, the path is full of obstacles that can derail our efforts to achieve our goals. Procrastination is the biggest obstacle! It is constantly right around the corner to entice us to delay our work and do something else. I, definitely, am a victim to procrastination. It’s necessary to identify this enemy and use discipline as your weapon against it. Step up and be the hero defending your dreams by being super-disciplined. Remember you are the only one in control to complete your goals.
Negative thinking and fear is also a key obstacle to achieving goals. You tell yourself you will probably not be able to achieve your dreams. Negative thinking can be very potent and once you begin this thinking it will escalate and can become a self-fulling prophecy. A good way to combat negative thinking is to practice daily positive affirmations. They will get your head into a productive place.
Ways to Overcome Obstacles Blocking Your Goals
Once you identify the obstacles that get in your way when trying to achieve your goals, you’ll need to figure out a way to tackle them. I set goals to be achieved every 90 days (3 months), but I always have to break the goals down into smaller, managable tasks or mini-goals in order to get to where I want to be. You may want to identify a mini-goal you will accomplish in a week, but I break mine down into what I need to achieve each day. That way I feel less overwhelmed and can see gradual progress toward my main goal and that gives me encouragement to keep going.
One thing to remember (and it has helped me greatly) is that these are your goals. You can change, adjust, and alter them at any time. Have fun on your journey to achieving your dreams and always look forward.
In Conclusion:
The journey towards your dreams can be quite an adventure, with progress marked by your completion of goals. What I have provided is some suggestions and what works for me. You will need to map out your own journey and strategies for your own success. Just remember to face the challenges with humor, confidence, and a definitive plan. Achieving your dreams is a wonderful destination, but savor the journey and the satisfaction you will feel with your successes. I hope this has been helpful to you. I know it has given me direction for setting my goals for 2024. Go here to see my plan for 2024. Enjoy your journey and your success. Shoot For the Stars!!