A Simple Goal Guide

Keep It Simple

Set SMART goals: specific, measurable, attainable, relevant and trackable. Don’t bite off more than you can chew to start. You can always reset the goal parameters and target higher levels as you go. For example, if you have been physically inactive and want to start incorporating activity, start simple with a 20 minute walk. Do not start with running 2 miles. That can come at the next tier in your goal setting when you adjust, monitor and control the progress and next phase of the goal.

Be Visual

Once you’ve set your goal, see it as already achieved and better yet ‘feel it’. The old saying of “acting as if” or “fake it till you make it”, is as profound as it gets. The fastest way to achieve your goal is to see yourself as already having achieved it. For example, if you have a fear of public speaking and want to lose that, you must see yourself speaking freely and with confidence, rather than seeing yourself dry mouthed and trembling on a stage. When we see and feel the way we intend to become, our higher self and the universe bends over backwards to align the new results.

Plan of Action

We can’t escape this one. A goal without a plan is a recipe to stay exactly where you are.  You must set an activity plan along with your success mindset. What steps will you take to get you to the end result? Map out the baby steps, the short term steps and the long term goals. Step by step will expand the goal parameters and lead to the final result of achievement.

Be Accountable

Tell people about your goal or partner with a goal buddy to help you keep yourself accountable. If you are an independent thinker and have a keen sense of self-reliance and responsibility, you may be able to keep yourself accountable. The key is to be honest about this and do what you need to do to track your accountability. Logging your steps daily is one of the easiest ways to track your progress.

Overcome Obstacles

Before you set out, identify what potential obstacles might be. Are they family commitments, time, confidence, lack of resources? Be specific and dig deep to identify the potential obstacles and how you might clear them from your path. The easier and more clear you make the path, the higher the chance of success. Overcoming obstacles may mean you might have to ask for help. Do not be afraid to reach out and ask for help or for support in helping you achieve what is important to you.  We all deserve to love and honor ourselves so by declaring what is important for us in our life, is an integral step for our self-worth and enjoyment of life in general. Do what you need to do to make things happen for you even if it involves assistance from others. We are human for this reason, to support and assist each other in our earthly journey.

Surround Yourself with Success

Actively work at surrounding yourself with the positive reinforcement you need. Do whatever it takes. This might include, but is not limited to people, resources, feelings, motivational platforms such as quotes, videos, books, etc. Put into your realm only those things that encourage you, uplift you, and inspire you to be the version of yourself that you are requesting as your goal. Success attracts success. Talk to others who have met goals similar to yours and find out what worked for them.

Don’t give up!

There will always be highs and lows and slip ups. Commit to yourself that you are in for the entire journey of the goal and then it becomes simple. When you are steadfast in your wants, the end result is not an option, it’s just a matter of time. The most important thing to do is to enjoy the journey and have as much joy as possible along the way. Make joy and enjoyment your lifestyle and see your goals as mere lifestyle enhancements.  Have gratitude for where you are now and embrace it fully. See your goals as mere enhancements to your life that is already wonderful and it will make the achieving of your new goals a breeze.

I wish you much success in your goal setting and most of all, I hope the journey is filled with laughter, enjoyment and ultimately success as defined by you.

 MaggieHolbik.com is a Life & Business Coach who believes in empowering others in life and business.