Plan to Achieve

Motivation is a funny old thing. Sometimes, when we need it the most, it vanishes, leaving us feeling adrift on a sea of ‘one days.’

To keep motivated and finish projects, it is important to set smart goals. Goal setting achieves several things, when done well; it helps you to get clear about your wishes, then to set a concrete course of action and ideally, a time limit.

Think of goal setting like going on a two week trip. Would you just leave your house and go without packing anything, knowing where you are going to or how you are going to get there? Probably not. Most of us would organised time off, pack a bag of essentials, leave the house in order, book some accommodation and transport and let friends and loved ones know how long we’ll be away.

The same goes for setting and achieving goals. Set SMART goals that guide and encourage you.

S – Specific (or Significant).

M – Measurable (or Meaningful).

A – Attainable (or Action-Oriented).

R – Relevant (or Rewarding).

T – Time-bound (or Trackable).

Start big; as in big picture. Let’s use a sports analogy as say your goal is to run a marathon. Work out why, and make sure it means something to you personally, rather than feeling pressured by external influences.

There’s your big goal. Next, find an event and book it. Pay the entry fee and commit. It will give your goal structure and focus. If you have to travel to the event, book accommodation and and travel you may need. There’s no backing out now!

Now, assess your training. Where are you now? Are you able to walk 5 km? Run 20 km? Your answer will determine your action plan. Work backwards from the vent date and make a plan so that you can progress in a manner that fits in with your lifestyle and physical condition. Seek professional help if need be.

Break the plan down into small pieces so you can check them off – plan how long you will run each week, and schedule in the days. Plan any changes in diet you may require, factor in days to rest and days to do other complementary activities that will assist your goal.

Check off your small goals daily or weekly, depending on the goal. There is nothing like achievement to make you feel motivated. It will also help you track your progress and adjust your plans accordingly, if your medium goals are too easy (or hard!)

This principle of goal setting can be applied to all areas of your life – finance, career, health, fitness and hobbies. What would you like to achieve? make a plan and start today!