Stepping up to the challenge making effective goals

By: james partin

Are you in a rut? Everyday there are things that you would like to change about yourself, however like most of us the demands of everyday schedules, busy deadlines, stacks of work zap you energy, and enthusiasm. Therefore everyday continues to be like every other day. One of life's hardiest lessons is how to be an effective goal planner and achiever. You goal
might be losing weight, living healthier, budgeting better getting a college degree or learning a new skill. However you may not know where to start, or how to achieve it. You need to develop a plan.

There are several things to remember in establishing goals:

First, the goal needs to realistic, simple, achievable specific and fair to yourself. A general goal might be I want to lose weight. However a more clearly defined goal, is I want to lose 20 pounds by Christmas. This goal is specific and measurable and realistic provided there is adequate amount of time.

Second, prioritize and be creative in achieving a goal. This is where the planning stage is in achieving goal. You just sit and
brainstorm, how you are going to achieve your goal. How do I start?

If the goal is losing 20 pounds or living healthier, maybe I need to manage my diet with less fat or sugar.  Maybe I need to exercise, walking is low Impact workout and is a great way to start, once endurance builds maybe jogging, or running on a favorite track, park or community. Joining a local fitness center is an option, is there time that I currently spend on other
activities such as TV, radio that could be cut back in order to make time for a training program. If the goal was better budgeting may starting a manageable saving plan such as $50.00 a week, or paying off high interest credit cards, maybe packing lunch instead of eating out.

Third, persistence is important with any goal you choose, you are going to have successes and failures.  Maybe you haven't had time and didn't healthy today, or workout. There is a new day tomorrow. May you spent to much money on something, the car needs work, plumbing, or roof at home needs repairing. Things happen in life to cause life to get out of balance. However as soon as possible you need to get back to you plan and goals.

Fourth, support structures are important. The people that back you and help you achieve goals these could be family, friends, coworkers, or self-help community groups with people like you trying to achieve the same goals your buddies are your support structures. These people give you encouragement, advice, and most important affirmations. When nobody is there for support, you need to support yourself. One idea might personal notes to yourself on posted notes on mirrors or doors, etc.

Fifth, rewards are important yes achieving your goal is a reward in itself, however small rewards along the way keep the motivation or drive up. If I stick to my diet this week I am going to buy a new outfit, go to concert, play, game, or short vacation, etc. If I stick to budget or saving plan, and pay off debt, maybe I will spend a little extra for special occasion, or buy
something I have been wanting.  

Success, just remember once you have achieved your goal your self-esteem, will grow and that next challenge will be easier and you can live life to the fullness.

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