Why write goals in the first place? The goal writing process is the first step in actually achieving the goal. It makes it real.
So let me ask you this –
What comes to mind when you hear the word “goal”? Do you feel excitement and clarity? Or do you feel depressed? Why? Maybe they aren’t clear enough. Maybe it’s something else.
Whatever it may be, one thing stands true. People who write down goals have more success in their life. They live with more purpose, more passion, more clarity in who they are. Because of this, goals leads to greater self-confidence.
… and the starting place is write goals down!
In this episode
- How to write actionable goals
- Goals clarify your direction (and become real if written)
- Discovering what excites you!
- Why milestone are critical
- Goal planning that motivates action
References
Book – Switch: How to Change Things When Change Is Hard by Chip & Dan Heath
Book – The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Steven Covey
Quotes mentioned
“Setting goals, is the first step into turning the invisible into the visible.” – Tony Robbins (source)
“You can go anywhere you want in life, if you take enough small steps.” – Curt Goad
4 Steps to setting actionable goals
Step 1: Create a vision
Here’s your chance to dream. Allow yourself to explore your desires and dreams to make the world a more positive place. Think about the values that you hold most dear and incorporate them into your goals. Think about what kind of legacy you want to leave.
Or simply think of something you need. Not all goals need to be HUGE visions.
The important thing is to envision them happening. Feel what it is like to have the goals you desire. Meditate on these things.
Step 2: Ask why
Why are you doing it? What do you hope to accomplish from having this goal. The WHY is critical for keeping the passion going. It may even be a good idea to write down your WHY next to each goal.
Step 3: Start goals with a verb
DO Write goals like this:
“Work for Google”
DO NOT write goals like this:
“Job at Google”
Do you see the difference? One starts with a verb (an action) whereas the other is just a bland noun. Read and refine all you want, but make sure that you start it with an action.
Step 4: Break it down
Turn big goals into smaller goals by turning the major goal into a list.
For example:
- Look for openings online
- Network with friends from Google
- Ask to be introduced to hiring managers
- Refine resume
- Update Linked In profile
- Notice these all start with verbs?
This should give you enough to get started on setting your own goals. And remember write goals down!
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Samuel Hatton
Producer
Samuel Hatton is the full-time marketing guy at Endsight – San Francisco Bay Area’s premium locally sourced computer technology support. He’s a multi-talented creative, natural encourager, and is full of courageous ideas.
Weston Pokorny
Connector
Weston Pokorny is a free-lance business technology consultant. People call him when they are faced with major projects they just can't get organized around. He's a master organizer, people connector, and is full of courageous compassion.
