Goal Setting Methods

Goal Setting Methods
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Whether you desire to lose 10 pounds or you want to move ahead in your career, you have a goal. Mind Tools describes the goal setting process as knowing what you want and using that knowledge to decide where to focus your efforts. There are ways to set goals so that your aspirations can come to fruition. Some methods help turn visions of success into reality more successfully than others.

SMART

One popular goal setting technique is the SMART technique. Top Achievements explains that SMART is an acronym for specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and timely. Set goals that are precise, not broad. Know exactly what you want to achieve. This may mean dividing a large goal into smaller pieces. A measurable goal is one that has landmarks along the way that enable you to measure your progress. Top Achievement describes an attainable goal as a goal planned out wisely within a reasonable time frame. A realistic goal is one that you are passionate about and willing to work to achieve. Finally, a timely goal is one that has a sense of urgency.

Lifetime Goals

When setting goals, Mind Tools suggests determining what aspects of your life are important to you. Setting lifetime goals helps form your day-to-day decision making process. Categories to consider when setting lifetime goals include career, finances, physical well-being and attitude. Mindtools encourages you to decide what you want to achieve in your career. Set career goals based on those decisions. The site advises goal setters to decide how important your financial well-being is. Decide if saving money is a priority. If financial attainment is important, create realistic financial goals. Decide if your physical well-being is a priority. Determine if you want to be in top physical shape or if it is enough for you to simply be healthy. Determine if your attitude needs an overhaul. If you would like to change your outlook on life, set goals to do so. By reviewing important aspects of your life, you will be able to set relevant goals.

Seek Motivation

A good way to set and achieve goals is to find sources of motivation and inspiration. The website Goal Settings suggests turning to biographies or motivational books for inspiration when setting goals. If you are trying to create a realistic, attainable goal regarding your career, read biographies of entrepreneurs. If physical fitness is your priority, read a biography of a professional athlete. You can get ideas for creative goals from stories of other successful people.

Find inspirational quotes, pictures or poems that will motivate you and help you keep your eye on the goal. Hang them in various places around your house or workplace to keep you focused on your goal.

References

Article reviewed by David Bill Last updated on: Aug 3, 2010

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