SMART Goals- A better way to success

Everyone dreams. Some dream big, others small, some dreams are realistic, others are not. Whatever the case may be for you, I’m sure you’d agree that these dreams at some point made life more bearable and motivated you to keep going.

Dream

I remember from an early age whenever life became too difficult to bear, I would go into a daze and start daydreaming. May I add that daydreaming turned into goal setting, some research being done and eventually some of those thoughts became a reality to me?!

Whether or not these dreams become a reality could depend on whether you work towards making them a reality. This, without a doubt, involves setting some goals.

DID YOU KNOW?

Setting goals are not as difficult as they are made out to be. Yet, 20% of people say they have goals and only 4% of that group have it written down. More surprisingly, less than 1% review their goals regularly.

Which category do you fall into? Where do you want to fit in? One of the reasons why such a small percentage of people set proper goals is because although we are all goal oriented by nature, we also tend to shy away from things that seem complicated. We’re afraid of change, things we don’t fully understand, and we crave simplicity.

If we think about it though, goal setting is not that complicated. You decide what you want, when you want it, how you will get it and take the required action to achieve it. Okay!!! I may have made it seem a bit simpler than it actually is, depending on the type of person you are. It can be easier for some than it is for others, but believe me, it’s possible for everyone. Yes!!! It can be done. For some it comes naturally, and others have to work at strengthening this skill through practice.

Give it a try.

Below are some key points for goal setting.

PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE it and soon it will become a habit.

Benefits of goal setting

Goal-oriented people seem #healthier, #happier and more #confident. They are normally the leaders and the problem solvers. Setting goals keeps us motivated, enables us to plan and gain greater control over future life events. It provides us with a sense of achievement; being more focused on results, we then tend to work smarter instead of harder. It enables us to use our time and resources more effectively, reduces stress and adds meaning and purpose to our lives. Lastly, it also increases our chances of success in our careers and personal life.

It is true that we may plan the way, but the Lord directs our steps. So, start planning and let Him lead you. As Stephen Strasser states in his book ‘Working it Out’, even failing to achieve goals has a positive effect, because we never have to look back and ask ourselves “what if…?”

Identify any obstacles that may prevent you from achieving your goals

Goal-Setting Process

Setting SMART goals increases the chances of actually reaching the goals you set. SMART goals are: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, Timely

For example, if your goal is, “I’m going to save up to buy a car.” Make this SMART: “I’m going to save R160 000 to buy a secondhand Toyota SUV in 2 years’ time. To do this, I shall save R6700 per month for the next 24 months.” This way you know what you are working towards and can keep track of your progress.

Smart goals

Write your goals down to keep better track of progress.

Set SMART goals by answering the following:

Specific: Does the goal have specific means and ends? What is specific about your goal?

Measurable: How can the goal be measured?

Actionable/Achievable: What are the specific actions that will lead to this goal? What do you need to do to accomplish it and is it realistic?

Relevant/Realistic: Is this goal relevant to your current position? Is it based on factors that are under your control?

Time-bound: Your goals should have deadlines. This will create urgency and help you to get the work done without procrastinating.

Is the goal short, medium, or long term?

Short term goals: 0-24 months

Medium Term goals: 3-5 years

Long Term goals: 5 years +

Keep monitoring your progress to make sure that you stay on track

Stay on top of your goals and special events with this Intentional Celebration Binder and plan better with these Planners from Chasing foxes.

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If you are ready to set some goals, download a Goal setting template to help you set your SMART goals.

Celebrate