Setting Goals for 2018: A Strategic Guide for Success

Setting goals has long been an annual December tradition for many. But how can you plan for the future so that you don’t shed tears over unrealized goals at the end of the year? This article provides a comprehensive guide to help you set and achieve your goals for 2018, focusing on strategies that maximize your chances of success.

Choose 12 Major Goals for the Year

The first and most important thing is to choose 12 tasks for the year, one for each month. You might think that's too much, but it's definitely not! Unfortunately, we are prone to apathy and procrastination. However, if you look at your goals in detail, you'll be surprised at how quickly they can be achieved.

Making a to-do list with 12 tasks on a sheet of paper and pinning it on the wall can keep the list before your eyes all year long. This constant reminder will motivate you and prevent you from retreating from your goals.

Two Simple Rules for Choosing a Goal

Set goals that are easy to measure. For example, aim to write 10 articles so you'll know the exact deadline. Imagine that the task has already been accomplished and think about whether it would make you happy.

Remember, goals should be achievable, realistic, and aligned with your long-term purpose. By defining specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and time-bound goals, you can maintain momentum and make progress towards your objectives.

THE TWO KEY QUESTIONS FOR COMPELLING GOAL SETTING

Identify Your Goals

What do you want? Something magical happens when you take generalized desires and start defining them more precisely through goal setting. Clarifying your goals helps you to stay focused and committed.

Identify Your Purpose

Why do you want it? Knowing the purpose behind your goals will inspire you to find ways to make them happen. Remember: reasons come first, then the answers.

CREATE AND MAINTAIN MOMENTUM WITH S.M.A.R.T. GOALS

To set goals effectively, they should follow the S.M.A.R.T. principles:

Specific: The more detailed you can be, the better. For example, "I want to lose 20 pounds so that I can wear my favorite clothes again this June." Measurable: Use precise criteria to track progress. For example, "understand your current spending patterns, pay off your credit cards, and start saving 25% of your income per month by the end of the year." Achievable: Ensure your goals are not too ambitious; setting unrealistic expectations can lead to frustration and disappointment. Realistic: Set goals that match your current circumstances. For example, spending six hours a day on a hobby might not be realistic. Time-bound: Having a clear timeline creates a sense of urgency. For example, "lose 20 pounds by next June."

Setting Goals Step-by-Step

Step 1: Brainstorm Your Goals

Spend 6 minutes brainstorming a list of anything you'd like to achieve over the next 20 years. Write as many things down as quickly as you can within this time.

Step 2: Indicate Time Frame

Now, go back through your list and write 1, 3, 5, 10, or 20 years next to each goal to indicate how long it will take to achieve them. You have a minute and a half to do this, so be quick and trust your instincts.

Step 3: Select Top Four 1-Year Goals

Review your list and choose your top four 1-year goals. These should make you really excited. Write a paragraph for each goal explaining why you will absolutely achieve this goal within the next 12 months. This exercise should take you about 15-20 minutes in total.

If you have the chance, share what you've written down with a friend, family member, or another trusted person. If not, just say them out loud to yourself.

Final Concept

There are three steps in Personal Power:

Put your goals where you’ll see them daily. Write down and take at least one action towards achieving your goals. The rocking chair test: Visualize yourself older and looking back. What's the pain from not achieving, and what is the pleasure from having achieved your goals?

By following these steps, you can increase your chances of success and avoid the disappointment of unrealized goals at the end of the year.

Hope this helps! If you're looking for an ongoing coach to meet your potential, get in touch for a free consultation.

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