5 Ways to Simplify Your Goal Setting

May 13, 2014

woman working on her mobile deviceSetting goals doesn’t have to become an exercise in frustration. Once you have your vision in place (and that can take a bit of time) you have to take action. But what  trips us up is taking action that doesn’t line up with what we want.

 

I used to have pages of goals. It was really too much. What I needed was to focus on the things I really wanted. Instead of expecting to work on everything at once, I needed to take it step by step.

 

So, forget about being overwhelmed when figuring out what to do next. There’s no need to put that pressure on yourself. There are ways to make goal setting easier and much less stressful.

 

Here are some tips:

 

1. Decide what you don’t want. We often spend more time focused on what we don’t want, but here’s a way to make it work for you. Has your business hit a wall? Or do you wish you could get in shape? Wish you could stick to that budget?

 

Make a list of the things you don’t want in your life. Write them down so that you can refer to the list as you go forward. Be honest about the things that really irritate you. Ready to come to terms? Great. Use that list as a starting point for what you do want. Use it to release the things that are holding you back.

 

2. List your accomplishments so far. When we get frustrated, it’s easy to forget how far we’ve come. What have you already done that you’re really proud of? Stop beating yourself up and take a good look at what you’ve already achieved.

 

3. Keep it simple. As I mentioned,  we can overwhelm ourselves with too many goals. We can’t change everything in a day. So don’t try! Take it step by step. Consistent action is what counts. If impatience is a problem for you, just relax. You will get where you want to go, even if it’s just one step a day–or a week. As long as you keep moving forward, that’s what counts.

 

ID-1001509664. Picture your ideal result. Where do you see yourself in 6 months, 1 year or even 5 years from now? Will your goals help you to get there? For instance, if one of your goals is to make healthy eating choices, but you can’t picture yourself getting regular exercise or living a healthy lifestyle–what small steps can you take right now to get started?

 

5. Write it down. If you’re not into journaling, make a list on paper or online. Writing down your goals will make them real.

 

Taking action steps will get you results. If you don’t take action, your vision will never be realized. While you’re taking action, don’t try to do everything at once. Stay focused and take it step by step.

Copyright © 2014 Deborah A. Bailey

Image courtesy of pat138241 / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

 

Deborah A Bailey

Deborah is a writer, writing workshop presenter and published author. She's host of the Women Entrepreneurs Radio podcast.

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  • […] Setting goals doesn't have to be to become an exercise in frustration. Once you have your vision in place (and that can take a bit of time) you have to take  […]

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