According to the Graziadio School of Business and Management at Pepperdine University, the best way to set goals is to base them on your core values. Goals are future achievements for which you plan. You'll be better able to make a commitment to those goals and stay on track when they are based on those things you value most. When you firmly believe the goal is important, you'll do whatever it takes to attain it.
Time Frames
Successful goal setting requires specific dates for completion to help guide your plans. For example, if savings is an important value to you, set a goal of saving a specific amount by a set date. It is important to write down goals to solidify your commitment and make them visible so you can periodically review them. Calendars and date books provide tools for maintaining time frames and achievements. Break down your goals into short and long-term achievements. Short-term goals should support the ultimate final goals, according to the Association for Applied Sport Psychology (AASP). Make separate lists to define each step and date for completion.
Warning
Regular review is pertinent to stay on track to reach goals. Goal setting is a process you must monitor. Make goals flexible and realistic. For example, if you planned on saving $1,000 in six months and you get laid off, you may have to tweak your plans and rearrange your short-term goals. Be prepared to change your ultimate goal if you realize you've been unrealistic. Don't despair or give up; remain flexible so you can change direction when necessary.
Benefits
You realize additional benefits when you start practicing goal setting at an early age. Parents should encourage children to set goals to develop the habit. Achieving small steps provides you with motivation to try for bigger goals. For example, a youngster who wants to play golf may start by being able to putt successfully at a golf range. An adult whose goal is to run a marathon may start by achieving a 1-mile run first. The AASP notes that the positive reinforcement of achieving goals greatly affects confidence and self-esteem.
Considerations
Goals are best gleaned from your values. A personal inventory in the form of a list of what is most important to you can help you begin to identify your own priorities. Goal setting should take into consideration family, education, health and finances listed in order of value to you. Break each category down into specifics, such as immediate family, spouse or extended family, savings, earnings or spending.
Significance
Realistic goals are based on your talents, weaknesses and strengths. Base your plan on those significant qualities to best achieve your goals. According to Peak Sports, athletes set goals based on their previous performance and their physical abilities. Goal setting for any reason requires the same perspective.
Member Comments