Goal Setting 101

(article by Cathy Sykora)

In preparing for my holiday challenge, a review of good goal setting practice was in order.  I love New Years because I like lists, assessing and making a plan.  I like success with goals even more.  It seems like the more clarity and conviction you have the better chance you have of succeeding.

Everything I learned about goal setting was from Anthony Robbins.  My son used to get nervous because he said he could tell I was in a challenging time or situation because I would pull out Anthony Robbins.  It is true,  Tony could always get me to take steps forward that I wouldn't have done on my own.

Before even setting the goal, you should take several steps to be sure that you have clarity and you are striving for goals that are really important to you.  If you are confused or misguided on your goals, it is harder to stick with your plan.   Tony Robbins says that there are 7 steps to setting goals:

1.  Clarity

You must get clear on where you were and where you are.

2.  Certainty

Once you get clear on where you are, you must get certain that you can attain this goal.

3.  Excitement

After figuring out where you are and that you can achieve anything you set your mind to, you need to decide where you want to be.

4.  Focus

Out of your list of goals, circle the top 3 or 4 you would like to achieve during the holidays.  Which of those goals would inspire you to take action?

5. Commitment

Take each of your 3 or 4 goals and decide why you MUST achieve them.  What are some of the things you don’t want to do that you will have to if you want to achieve them.

6.  Momentum

Resolve to do one small and one large thing immediately to move toward reaching your goals.

7.  Get SMART

One popular guideline for setting goals is the SMART method.  The more often you measure yourself and hold yourself accountable, the stronger your results.

·         S – Specific (or Significant).

·         M – Measurable (or Meaningful).

·         A – Attainable (or Action-Oriented).

·         R – Relevant (or Rewarding).

·         T – Time-bound (or Trackable).

Now, I am ready to set my goals for the holidays!  I hope this helps you too.

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