Setting Goals To Achieve Your Dreams

A dream without a goal is similar to taking an automobile trip without a road map. You will surely arrive, but where? To make certain that you achieve your dreams set specific, measurable goals that are compatible with your dreams.

Break goals down into small steps, review them daily and revise them regularly. List activities that will help you attain your goals. Develop a detailed, scheduled plan of action, then take one small step at a time to move toward your goals.

Henry David Thoreau said, "If one marches confidently in the direction of his dreams and endeavors to lead the life he has imagined, he will meet with success unexpected in common hours."

You can strengthen the belief that your goals will be reached by acting as if they have already been met.

Speak, think, act, and live the traits and qualities you desire. You then become that person.

In establishing goals, keep these guidelines in mind:

1. Goals should be for you and not for someone else.
2. Goals should be realistic and believable.
3. Goals must be achievable, so attack big goals in short steps, one at a time. For example, to lose 50 pounds, establish a goal to lose one pound a week for 50 weeks.
4. Goals should allow you to enjoy life. Don't tackle so much work that you don't have enough time to relax. The purpose of goal setting is to reduce, not increase frustration.

Follow these steps in making your goals useful:

1. Write your goals on a single sheet of paper.
2. Read your goals every day.
3. Each day question your resolve: "Am I doing those things that will help me achieve my goals?"

And remember:

1. Unwritten goals are simply wishes.
2. Successful achievement depends on commitment to your goal. Review reinforces commitment.
3. Asking yourself the activity question-"Am I doing those things that I need to do to achieve my goals?" - will help focus your energy.
4. As you change, change your goals.