How to Structure Goals
Everyone has goals. Whether they’re huge and aspiring, or small and “safe.” The way you go about thinking and planning them determines if you actually reach them.
Remember one of our early articles? We talked about goals vs. commitments. A mindset in which you frame your desires and wishes as things you WILL achieve rather than wish would happen.
Viewing goals as commitments AND using the tips outlined below may be what you need.
There’s an acronym you’ve probably learned at some point – S.M.A.R.T.
S – Specific
M – Measurable
A – Attainable
R – Realistic
T – Timely
A “smart” goal is one that includes these attributes making them more likely to attain.
Specific goals include details like who, what, when, where, why and which. Make sure they’re measurable by creating criteria to track progress. For example, a habit tracker in a bullet journal.
Ensure it’s attainable by planning thoroughly and setting mini goals along the way. Realistic goals are those that you are actually willing AND able to work toward. That is a huge part of goal setting — choosing ones that you truly want for yourself.
Finally, give your goals a date to achieve them so that they’re timely.
Having these aspects defined provides direction, support and creates a step-by-step plan. You’re able to imagine the next steps that need to be taken logically. It keeps you focused on the journey rather than the big picture.
Focusing too much on the end goal can cause overwhelm and stop people from starting in the first place. Being present keeps you grounded. This is where the learning happens and where you’ll get the most out of the journey.
More Tips
There are additional actions you can take to ensure you accomplish your goals and dreams. The first is to evaluate your current situation. Look at your past and present circumstances — what did or didn’t work.
Think about this before creating a SMART goal. After, write it down. Be clear and specific including as many details as you can.
Breaking it down helps keep it attainable. If a massive goal is broken down into small, manageable steps it’s much easier to remain determined and avoid throwing in the towel. You’re more likely to cheer yourself on.
This leads into a few tactics to help keep endurance and hope.
Hold yourself accountable. This is easier said than done. Depending on the goal, you may want to quit more than once.
Having those mini-goals will make this easier. You can even integrate rewards. Every time you reach a mini-goal, do something small for yourself that makes you happy.
Overtime, you’ll start to notice what works for you. Let those mechanisms become your healthy habits. You’ll stay on track, reach each mini-goal and eventually accomplish your actual goal.
Takeaways
Everything is easier said than done as mentioned above. You can SAY you want to do something, but simply stating you have a goal will not help reach it. Following some or all of the tips laid out above can give you that extra “umph” you need.
It might take time to learn what works for you. Everyone has different goals, versions of success and ways of motivating themselves. The way someone else approaches their goals doesn’t mean you have to in the same manner.
Why does any of this matter?
Goals are important. They show that you care about yourself and where you’re going. They also serve as promises to yourself.
Honor yourself and stick to your desires – make the most of your one life.