Almost everyone spends at least some time envisioning their hopes and dreams for their future. For most people, a vision for the future is an improved version of their current status and lifestyle. Whether it is health and wellness, workplace success, finances, or relationships, practically everybody has the desire to make something in their life better than it is currently.
To begin creating a vision, simply set a few goals. Establishing goals usually isn’t too difficult in comparison to choosing the right goals. Ideal targets are often for creating positive changes in overall health, happiness, and wellness. The process is just a pre-determined plan which increases the chance for success.
Taking the first step creates the momentum toward achievement. Goal setting is a popular strategy which is used by professional athletes, successful business people, and high achievers in all fields. It creates a long-term vision and can also provide short-term motivation.
To begin the goal setting process, it’s helpful to create a long-term outlook over an extended period of time such as a five year plan. Determine which large scale goals should be accomplished in that time frame. The next step is to break each large goal into smaller accomplishments. This overall strategy can then be used to create an overall success plan.
Besides setting up a structure which increases the opportunity for success, there are other benefits as well, including health benefits. People who use goal setting systems also:
- Reduce overall stress and anxiety
- Have greater concentration and focus
- Exhibit more self-confidence
- Perform better in all areas of life
- Experience greater overall happiness and more satisfaction
The following guidelines will help establish an effective strategy which will create the pathway to success so that goals become a reality. Having a well thought out plan also assists with time management.
Put goals in writing
This increases clarity and give them energy. Having a visual reminder is also empowering and will help prevent goals from being forgotten. Post the plan somewhere where it will be viewed often.
Create a timeline
Add dates and times for when each goal should be met. This creates added accountability and prevents any lags of momentum. Transfer the dates to a calendar for added reminders.
Express each goal positively
You are much more likely to achieve a goal which is positive and exciting. Goals which seem like a chore, such as organizing the garage or basement, are often put aside for things which are more fun. Put a positive spin on goals that aren’t inherently exciting by focusing on the end result. Visualize any aspects of the goal which will bring happiness. Using the garage example, thinking about parking the car in the newly empty space or having well organized sports equipment might be more motivating than the cleaning and organizing process.
Set realistic goals
It’s crucial to set goals which can be reasonably expected to be achieved. Avoid allowing others’ expectations to influence the goal setting process. Parents, spouses, and society often have unreasonable influence in goal determination. Allowing outside opinions to impact the determination of your goals sets the stage for failure. It’s important that your goals have meaning to you, not that other people agree with you.
It’s necessary to be realistic, and not aim for goals which are too high. It’s also important to avoid goals which are too low. As Marianne Williamson said, “Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. Your playing small does not serve the world. We are all meant to shine.” People often set goals low when they have a fear of failure or success. Goals should be a stretch to achieve, yet not so far out of reach that they seem practically impossible. Having small and incremental goals increases focus and determination. Being realistic increases success.
Celebrate Goals
Once a goal has been reached, take a moment to celebrate and enjoy a well-deserved victory. Celebrations are an important part of the process. Reflect on the path to achievement, considering the progress made toward the goals still ahead. Studies show that having preset rewards increases success.
Review your success plan
Each time a goal is reached it is helpful to cross it off your list and then carefully review accomplished goals as well as those remaining. If you achieved the goal without much effort, make future goals a little more challenging. In contrast, if the goal was too challenging and took too much time to achieve, make the next goal a little easier. If any lessons were learned in the process that require adapting other goals, simply adjust the plan.
