What are goals? Goals are defined by Dictionary.com as the result or achievement toward which effort is directed; aim; or end. The purpose of having a goal is to guide oneself to identify the WHO, WHAT, WHERE, WHY, WHEN, WHICH, and HOW one wishes to become or to accomplish in life. By understanding and identifying these points, one can set a plan with specific steps to reach one’s goals and desires. Goals can help you plan the necessary steps to succeed with a sense of direction to lead your life. If you don’t have a plan or map, you won’t reach that treasured goal.
“Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans” Proverbs 16:3 NIV.
Goals set the target for all your plans and actions. It is important to keep in mind that while you can strive for any ambition, the chances of success are higher if you put it down in writing, frequently review and revise it if necessary, and take appropriate action towards its fulfillment. Goal setting is a positive action with unlimited possibilities.
When you choose and establish goals, listen to your heart’s desires, passions, and interests; what is important, necessary, and drives you. Additionally, you should set goals in all aspects of your life such as physical, spiritual, financial, emotional, business/career, family, and personal. Working on more than one goal at a time is not as hard as it sounds. You don’t need to begin with large goals, small and incremental goals are just as effective. The most achievable goals are the small “baby step” goals. Little steps lead to bigger steps. Everyone wants to be successful, however, attempting to accomplish huge goals overnight can lead to feelings of discouragement.

Establishing S.M.A.R.T. goals, an acronym for Specific Measurable Attainable Realistic Time-bound is a good strategy for increasing the likelihood of achieving success. Goals need to be set with as many details as possible, including the 6 W and how. Be as specific and exact as you can to what the purpose of the goal is. To track your progress toward the finish line, it must be measurable to see how close you are to achieving your goal. A goal must be attainable and not impossible or completely out of reach. It must be realistic. Is it in the realm of your capabilities? Lastly, it must be time-bound. State a reasonable and specific amount of time for you to reach the goal. Enough to motivate you but not stress you. You need a way of accountability with concrete criteria.
Finally, to increase the chance of reaching your goals, you must be willing to take action towards them by taking a “baby step” and truly believe in their attainment. I encourage you to create two small, SMART goals in two areas of your life to be achieved in two weeks. Share with me your success and remember that it is important to have faith in your goal and to start taking the steps to reach it. Y? Why Not!
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