Monday, December 28, 2009

How to set yourself up to succeed

Have you ever wondered where you got to where you are today? Have you ever wondered where you will be in five or ten years? Do you know what you want to achieve by the end of the day? If you want to succeed and achieve then you need to set goals because otherwise you will lack focus and direction. Even if you get where you want to be you may not realize it. Here is how to set goals and set your self up for success in five easy steps.

The first step is to think about what motivates you. What is it in life that you truly love and would do or want even if no one else was behind you? If you do things just because someone else wants you to then you will lose motivation very quickly. Think about what the high priorities are in your life. Think about what is on you must do or really want to do soon list.

Next set smart goals. If you need help please look at my other article on smart goals, written just before this one. These goals are specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time bound. You need to ensure that your goal is clear and well defined with no generalizations.
Now let's set the goals down on paper. This makes then real and tangible and gives you no excuse to forget. You can share them with friends and family to garner support.

Once the goals are on paper it is time to set an action plan. This means you need to step back and think not just of the desired outcome but of the steps that are required to reach that outcome. Write down each of these steps so that you can cross them off when you achieve them and track your progress towards your goals.

Last but not least do not give up. There may be many times when you get frustrated but you need to plow through, read your goals, and keep with it.