Goal!

One of my favorite things to talk about is goal-setting. And since we're quickly approaching the time of year when many of us create a fresh set of goals, I thought I would quickly post something I bumped across earlier today. After all, each and every one of us is guilty of failing to achieve a goal or two along the way - and we'll do it again in 2010. For some it will be a fitness or weight-loss goal - something pertaining to personal improvement or growth. For others, a financial goal, or perhaps a relational/friendship goal.

Whatever your goal or goals, it's important to consider the top five reasons why people don't achieve their goals:

1) Failure to write your goals on paper. No, your computer doesn't count. Paper.

2) Failure to make a plan to achieve the goals. Without a road map, all your action will be wasted. Remember, vision without goal-focused action is a daydream, and action without vision is a disaster. In your plan, include the resources you may need, including the people who can help you.

3) Failure to post your goals in plain view. This is why you need to get them off your computer and onto your desk, your wall, or your fridge.

4) Failure to live up to the commitments you made. Commit to your commitments. As a famous personal trainer says, "Decide, Commit, Succeed." Now drop and give me twenty...

5) Failure to make goals that are achievable in the first place. It's okay to have your head in the clouds as long as your feet stay grounded in reality. Aim for the stars, but make sure you're capable of building a rocket to take you there.

In addition, make sure your goals are dated and measurable. Charting your progress will build your confidence and increase your level of accomplishment and commitment. There will be obstacles along the way, so try to anticipate those and add them to your goal list ahead of time.

Sure, this is pretty simplistic stuff, but it's time-tested advice that ought to help give us a good start to the coming new year.

J.