Creative Changes Blog

What's the difference, you ask?

New Year's resolutions are more like good intentions, and good intentions do not make good goals. Resolutions tend to ignore the process that leads up to the achievement. It is a bit like setting out on a road trip to the Grand Canyon, with no idea how to get there, no road map to direct you, and expecting to arrive at your intended destination without difficulty. Setting clear and specific goals is the equivalent to creating a road map to your desired outcome.

Do you know where you are going in 2009?

Whether your goals (dreams and ideas put to writing with the specific steps necessary to accomplish them) are business, personal, or both, give them a real chance of happening by following a few simple guidelines to create a plan of action.

1. You need quiet time to sit and think it through. What do you really, really want? Do some brainstorming. Grab a notebook and write down ALL the thoughts and inspirations that come to mind.

2. The next step is to prioritize those thoughts and inspirations. Delete anything that originates from a "should". A goal needs to arise from a compelling desire to move in a particular direction - not because you should, but because you really want that outcome.

3. Getting specific is the tricky part. It's easy to be vague, but when you force yourself to be more clear, the steps you need to take to achieve your goal will also be more clear. How will you know when you have achieved a goal if you are not very clear about what the desired outcome is?

4. Write them down. Keep your list short to avoid the overwhelm. Three major goals with target completion dates, and the steps you need to take to make them happen, is an ideal number. Keep a copy of your list in front of you - in your planner or on your bulletin board to remind you every day of exactly where you are going.

5. For me, the most important step in achieving important goals is accountability. Make yourself accountable to someone who will "keep you honest". When you state your goals and how you intend to reach them out loud they become real - no longer a wish in your head.

6. Finally, you need to include the action steps as priorities in your daily planning. Break down your long-term goals into weekly action steps and schedule the time to work on them.



What are you going to accomplish this year?


Having said all that - it's time for me to get busy with my 2009 goals and plans!

Until next time,

Sandra

Labels: Goal Setting, planning, Setting Goals