Goal setting

If you don’t have any goals and don’t feel that you need any, that’s okay. Many people are content with going to work, coming home, watching television, listening to music, reading a
book, taking care of the house, and just going about life. Many motivational leaders will say you need more, but if you are comfortable without goals, that’s fine.

I think goals are important.

If you created some goals, it’s time for a review. Did you complete your goal(s)? If not, why not? Was the goal compromised for some reason — finances, relationships,
family, work, self-imposed limitations/thoughts, procrastination, fear of failure? Did you lack financial education, proper direction, accountability, or mentoring? What can you do to eliminate these obstacles so that you can achieve your goals?

If you want to set new goals, now is the time. The following paragraphs describe a simple exercise that will help you to create goals.

The first step requires a piece of paper, a pen or pencil, a timer, and 20 minutes. Set the timer for 20 minutes and write down 100 goals. Don’t think too hard about it. Write down the
first things that come to mind.

The second step takes a little more time. Categorize the goals into sections. The sections are physical, mental, spiritual, recreation, family, career, social, and financial.

For the third step, divide each goal into action steps using the SMART technique. SMART is an acronym for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Timed. Evaluate the action steps you have decided on to make sure they meet these criteria.

The last step is to begin working the goal. The operative word is “working.” Goals and dreams do not come about by wishing, dreaming, or creating a montage of the things you want on a poster board.

You may find it difficult to determine which goal to work on first. Choose the section/goal that is most important to you at the time. It is also difficult to strike the right balance
between all the sections. Trying to achieve perfection in each section will actually create a negative return on the time invested.

Goals are achieved by completing the above action steps and by asking for guidance, direction, and mentoring.

Zig Ziglar is a phenomenal motivational speaker with a long history of success. He suggests the following action thought when creating your goal(s). Ask yourself five questions: Is it really my goal? (If you’re a minor living at home, an employee, or a team member, some of your goals may be set by your parents, employer, coach, or director.) Is it morally right and fair to everyone concerned? Is it consistent with my other goals? Can I emotionally commit myself to finish this goal? Can I “see” myself reaching this goal?

(written by Dr. Michael Kaye)