4.19.2011

Determine Your Destination

You have the ability to create yourself.  Goal setting is critical to this process and to your success.  Transformation is not a passive process.  It takes effort and involves looking inward.  Determine what you want, why you want it, and what you need and are willing to do to reach your goals.
Use the acronym SMART and the questions below to guide you in your goal setting process.

Specific: Clearly defined goals give you a destination and a driving force – your why, your motivation, and your inspiration. 
  • What are the core values that drive you?
  • What exactly do you want to accomplish and why?
  • What do you want to look like?
  • How do you want to feel?
  • What do you want to wear?
  • How do you want other people to respond to you?
Measurable
  • What is your definition of success?
  • How will you know when you reach your goal?
Attainable: Make a plan.
  • How are you going to reach your goal?
  • What behaviors/habits do you need to change or implement to achieve your goals?
  • What obstacles do you anticipate and how are you going to get over them?
  • What sacrifices do you have to make?
  • What sacrifices are you not willing to make?  Will this keep you from reaching your goal?
Realistic:  Make sure your goal reflects your optimal self for the time and energy you have to dedicate to achieving it.
  • Are you willing and able to execute the plan in the previous step?  If the answer is no, rework your goal.  If you are answer is yes, your goal is realistic.
  • Is your goal healthy?
Time Bound: Without a deadline, your goal lacks accountability. 
Set regular deadlines, as well as a final deadline, and benchmarks to keep yourself on track.  If you are ahead of schedule, adjust your goal to be more aggressive.  If you are behind schedule, revisit your plan and make some adjustments.  If you can honestly say you are doing everything you need to, rework your goal.

 “Life isn't about finding yourself. Life is about creating yourself.” - George Bernard Shaw

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