5 Things You Need to Know About Goal Setting

1. Make a List of Goals

When you start thinking about what goals you would like to achieve, start by making a simple list. Write your list on quality paper and make it as detailed as you can. Use positive wording to maintain a positive attitude about your goals. For instance, instead of saying "I don't want to be fat," say "I want to be healthy and fit." Keep the list in a location where you'll see it everyday as a constant reminder. Cross your goals off as you accomplish them. Use a highlighter so you can still read the initial goal, but your eye is drawn toward your accomplishments.

2. Divide and Conquer

Decide what short term goals you need to accomplish in order to achieve your long term goals and set deadlines for each goal. Purchase running shoes, hire a trainer or join a running club in order to prepare for running a marathon. Sign up for a race sometime in the future to motivate yourself to continue working through the short term goals. When you divide a big dream into small steps, you'll gain confidence once you see just how easily you can move forward.

3. Ready, Set, Goal

Talk to everyone about your goals. Let your friends and family know what you're going to do and when you're going to do it. Their input will provide support and help keep you motivated. It's easier to choose not to do something when no one else knows you wanted to do it in the first place. If everyone knows your plans, they'll be ready to help keep you on track. Your loved ones may have good advice, or know people who can help you obtain success.

4. Your Own Worst Enemy

Take a long, hard look at your attitude. The person who stands in the way of your success is most often yourself. What obstacles are you putting in the way of reaching your goals? Are there specific behaviors that you need to change in order to achieve your goals? Destructive behaviors include filling the kitchen cupboards with candy and cookies while you try to diet, or hanging around with people who smoke when you're trying to quit. Be honest about your attitude and you'll increase your likelihood of success.

5. Coaches and Trainers

Consider hiring a coach or a personal trainer to help you achieve your goals. This can be critical to success when your goals are athletic or when you're dealing with health issues. A coach or trainer can help you achieve your goals while avoiding injury, make sure you're learning proper techniques and keep you motivated. In addition, it's going to make you more likely to attend training sessions when you have specific appointments that you've paid for than if you're trying to go it alone.