Not having a goal is like driving without a destination. Yes, you go with the flow, but you will be directionless. You’ll lack the focus, confidence, and motivation to succeed. In other words, you will be leaving your fulfillment and your future to chance.

Why Set Goals Now

Setting goals isn’t just beneficial for your career. It will ultimately make you happier and healthier, too. Having a clear sense of where you want to be will inspire and motivate you. It will increase your productivity and help you with decision-making and prioritizing your tasks.

5 Steps to Stick To Goals

1. Be very specific when you articulate your goals

Be clear and define your goals. Goals should give you direction and challenge you, not just general statements to inspire you momentarily or give you tasks to do. For example, instead of writing “I will eat healthy” as your goal, you can be more specific and say, “I aim to reach my ideal BMI (between 18.5 to 24.9) in 6-months’ time by eating a plant-based diet and exercising 150 minutes a week.” Well-defined goals specifically tell you where you want to go and when you want to get them.

2. Use the right goal-setting strategy

Make sure to check if your goal is in alignment with your bigger purpose and values, then use the right goal-setting approach to articulate it. Make your goals measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound.

3. Visualize your goals on a regular basis

A technique often used by successful athletes and leaders alike is they visualize their goals daily. Start your day by visualizing your short-term and long-term goals. Imagine a detailed image of your goal. If one of your goals is to learn a technical skill, for example, you can envision yourself doing it, enjoying it, and earning from it. It will also help to have a tangible image that will remind you of your desired outcome or result.

4. Make your goals challenging enough

If a goal is too easy, there will be no growth. Goals have to be challenging, but not too difficult that it discourages you from finishing what you started. Evaluate your skills. Be honest with yourself and know what you are capable of doing. Set goals that you know you can achieve given your skills, resources, and timeframes.

5. Turn off distractions

When you have a destination, you are bound to encounter fork roads and diversions. Turn distractions off. Always go back to your values and your goals. If you are faced with choices, ask yourself which one will bring you closer to your goal. If it doesn’t contribute to what you want to achieve, let it go and move on.

Summary:

Goals empower you to take control of your future.

  • Write down your specific goals.
  • Use the right strategy.
  • Visualize yourself your goals.
  • Set challenging goals.
  • Avoid distractions.