'Tis the season! How do you feel about goals? I absolutely love them, but I know a lot of people who hate this time of year simply based on the nagging idea of goal-setting. My heart hurts for you people.
Goals are not something to be anxious about. Statistics regarding goals are profoundly and totally positive so forgive me for suggesting... you may be doing it wrong.
But rather than adding yet another blog to the sea of goal setting how-to's, here are five simple tips to consider this week while you chew on your own idea of goals.
Tap in
Your higher power knows your potential so when you're ready to focus on goals, make sure you're present and free from distractions. Pray. Meditate. Don't be afraid of big ideas and don't second guess your abilities.
Trust that you are being led.
Goals put you on the path to progress - any movement in the right direction is a win! So tap in and take aim.
Start general then hone in
Every year I choose one word to focus on - something I want to embody (word of advice; if you choose humble or patient be prepared for the tests that will undoubtedly ensue).
Words like healthy or social need specific targets so they can be measured (look up SMARTÂ goals). Take that general idea and create a long term goal (yearly).
Next set more specific (monthly) goals to support that big goal.
Now for the magic:
Then, set aside one day each week to plan your week based on those smaller goals.
Cover the spectrum
Often you'll find yourself setting goals in one aspect of your life. It's a natural way of filling a gap. But there are other aspects you need to keep tabs on to maintain life-balance so don't neglect those.
I use the following four categories as a guide and make sure I have at least one goal in each.
Follow through
Keep your goals somewhere visible and don't underestimate the power of accountability and feedback.
If you're an introvert, no worries. I often don't share my goals. That weekly planning session^^ covers accountability and feedback fairly well.
But if you are consistently finding yourself below the bar you set, find a partner or coach.
Be flexible
But not too flexible ;) Especially if you tapped in.
Remember that though your aim is for perfection, your expectations need to focus on progress. When March comes along and you find a goal unrealistic, modify it!
Missing the mark doesn't mean you failed. Failure only comes from not trying. Make adjustments and try again.
THAT'S IT! I've been setting goals this way for twelve years and for someone who really loves change and hates repetition, that's saying something. What are some other tips?
Good luck and HAPPY NEW YEAR!!
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