Goal Achiever’s Workshop – How to set and accomplish goals, finally.
Are you eager to finally achieve your goals? Many people start – and then stop. Lao Tzu said, “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” That’s true, but many people think that getting started is the only important step. I disagree. Strongly. Consider that fitness centers count on people signing up and then not showing up. Goals help to get on track and stay there.
Numerous studies have shown that only 3% of people have written goals and only 1% use their
plans on a daily basis. According to Scranton University, only 8% of people achieve their New Year’s goals. A Harvard Business Review study revealed that those who have goals written down are ten times more likely to succeed!
That’s been the case for years. What’s new now? Now you are determined to succeed. So, read
on. With the new year fast approaching, now is the perfect time to consider what to do
differently, to truly set yourself up for success.
It’s helpful to begin by asking good questions.
Why is this goal really important to you? Examine the underlying reasons that compel you to
take action and continue on your path. After all, there will be setbacks and roadblocks. When
you feel like giving up, remembering why you started will push you forward.
Are you ready? Various resources (including time) are required to achieve your goals.
If you’re going to climb a mountain, there’s gear, training, and support you simply must have in
order to succeed. It’s the same with any goal. But, if you lack something, you can put ways to
acquire it into your plans.
Is your target clear? Bruce Lee said that “a goal serves as something to aim at.” Focus is key to
success. With clarity, you can set priorities and take action. As Brian Tracey says, “Focus
precedes success.”
Who will support you? It’s nice to have emotional support, but many people have found
success without it. It is valuable to bounce ideas off of others. Even as I’m sharing with one of
my supporters, hearing what I say improves my thinking. After all, it’s as Ken Blanchard says,
“Feedback is the breakfast of champions.”
How do you hold yourself accountable? It could be that your supporters help keep you on
track. Or, you may use your own tracking system to do the trick for you. In any event,
accountability works. It’s like Will Rogers said, “Even if you’re on track, you’ll get run over if you
just sit there.”
How will you acknowledge and celebrate successes along the way? To give yourself the message that your successes are important, celebrate them. Besides, each accomplishment lays the groundwork, skill, confidence, and motivation for the next one.
