Excellent Goal Setting Tips

Hi, my name is Scott and I have a problem. Actually, let me correct myself- I had a problem. My problem was that I never had a system to build and manage my goals. Yes, I had goals but they were often unorganized, unknown to others, and never much fun to pursue. And quite frankly, I don't think I aimed high enough. Sound familiar?

So, I made a decision to make a change- I aimed higher, organized my goals, and enlisted an army to help me achieve them%u2026and made them fun because that's #1.

As I sharpened my focus on goal setting, I discovered that I needed a worksheet to streamline the process. So I developed the Ultimate Goal Setting Worksheet and it's the most beneficial one available. I know because I tried them all out. It's the best (and it's free).

8 Steps to Help You Use The Worksheet Effectively

Here's a few ideas to help you use the worksheet effectively-

Step #1 Define your goal

Write down your goal on the top of the worksheet. It's best to physically hand write the goal, because this will help you commit to it. Make certain that your goal is SMART- Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Time-bound.

Step #2 Enter the date that you'll achieve your goal

When you define your goal, it's imperative that you have a deadline. Make sure to allow yourself lots of time to reach the goal (but not too much time).

If you don't allow yourself enough time, you might not reach the goal and quit on your pursuit. If you allow yourself too much time, you will get side tracked and get off track. So make certain your date is realistic. If you need assistance choosing a date, speak with your accountability partner (which I discuss in Step #5). You may also email me and I will be pleased to help you out.

Step #3 Determine how you're going to reach your goal

"For every action there is an equal and opposite reaction." - Sir Isaac Newton

In this step you'll create a game plan. List the specific actions that you'll have to take to arrive at your goal. What resources will you need to accomplish these actions? Do they cost money? Try not to get stuck on the thought of having to spend a few bucks to perform your action steps. In the end, you'll get the most return on your money by investing in yourself.

Step #4 List your milestones

Your milestones are the smaller goals within your larger goal. What will you achieve before reaching your ultimate goal? For instance, if your goal is to get a new job, you'll need to land an interview first. Getting an interview is an example of a milestone for this goal.

Step #5 Identify your accountability partner

Choose some one to discuss your goal with so you will be held accountable. You'll push yourself harder if you know someone is watching.
This is certainly the most important but overlooked steps of the entire goal setting process. We overlook this step because we don't wish to be responsible for our actions.

Your accountability partner gives you an extra push that you'll need to carry out your goal. This will instill a little bit of fear in you that will cause you to move quicker and take decisive action.

What the majority of us avoid may be the very thing that will enable us to be successful.

Step #6 Build a mastermind group

Once you name your accountability partner, build a mastermind group. This is a group of experts which will help you complete your specific action steps. It isn't possible for you to be an expert at all the action steps. Focus on what you're good at and "contract out" as much of the other stuff as you can.

You can even create a mastermind group by associating with folks who have s similar goal. This way you can play off of each other's strengths to reach your common goal.

Step #7 Put in writing what your will life be like when you reach your goal

This step prompts you to list the reasons why you want to reach your goal. What things may happen after you achieve your goal? How will your lifestyle change? Are you happy with these effects? If so, you've selected a terrific goal to pursue. Go for it!

Step #8 Jot down your reward

What's the point in working hard if there is no reward at the end? Remember to give yourself a BIG pat on the back after you complete your goal- steak dinner, shopping trip, vacation, just be sure that it's something you'll enjoy. As Dale Carnegie said, "People rarely succeed unless they have fun in what they are doing."

Have fun with it.

Action Checklist

Once you fill out your Ultimate Goal Setting Worksheet, it's imperative that you complete these 3 action steps:

1) Deliver your goal to your accountability partner - I suggest that you hand deliver or email your completed goal setting worksheet to your accountability partner. This way he'll learn more about your goal. The more he knows about your goal, the more he will be able to help you achieve it.

2) Post your goal in a public forum (i.e. Facebook, Linked In, Google+) - Let the world learn about your goal! You'll be surprised by the number of people who will support you as you go along. It will be nice to have a cheering section behind you. This will help you stay motivated.

3) Post your worksheet so it's visible - Make sure to look at your goal everyday. You'll be amazed by some of the ideas that you'll develop on how you can reach your goal. Your mind will always be working (both consciously and subconsciously) to get you to the finish line.

For more information on the Goal Setting Worksheet, visit Margin of Excellence at www.marginofexcellence.com