Episode 7 (Set Goals in November) looks at Zen to Wow Idea #158 -- Set New Year's resolutions in November to ease the pressure.
I specifically address the following 5 ideas to consider as you set goals for 2007 and beyond.
1. Make Goals S.M.A.R.T.
2. Set Personal and Professional Goals
3. Create Short and Long-Term Goals
4. Use Goals to Set Priorities
5. Understand the Action Steps Needed to Achieve Your Goals
But, there is more to goal setting. So, with this in mind...here are 5 additional thoughts that should help your turn your goals into realities.
Post and /or Share Your Goals: Goals can be very personal. As such, we have a tendency to hide them in our heads or the bottom of a file cabinet. Watch your goals really come to life the minute you put them up on the bathroom mirror or share them with your associates. By openly sharing your goals, they are no longer abstract wishes, but rather concrete things that are very achievable.
Celebrate Your Victories: Accomplishing a goal, no matter how minor or trivial it may seem, marks a true level of achievement. Acknowledge your success and use it to gain momentum as you reach for the next goal.
Understand and Learn From the Goals You Did Not Reach: Much can be uncovered by missing a goal. Maybe you set the bar too high, or underestimated how long it would take you to reach your objective. Perhaps you found a flaw in an assumption you made while setting your goals. Whatever the case may be, missing a target can be a meaningful opportunity if you take the time to reflect as to what can go right in the future.
Update Your Goals: Goals can and should change over time. Economic conditions, competitive threats, and new business opportunities could all impact how you view your goals in both the short and long-term. Actively look at your goals each quarter and reevaluate where you want to head.
Get Accountability: Goals are important and should not be treated lightly. If you are serious about success, enlist the help of a trusted advisor or coach to hold you accountable for your actions and push you to achieve your goals. You will be glad you did.
Do you have other ideas / strategies about goal setting? Would you like to share your goals with me and / or other listeners? Post a message below, or send me an e-mail at Rob@EngelmanManagement.com.
May your days and nights be filled with WOW!
Rob Engelman
www.EngelmanManagement.com
Podcasting at www.zen2wow.com