Move goals from good to GREAT

Many people don’t realize that they set and achieve goals every day. While we tend to think of goals as something strenuous with a big reward, most times goals are attached to small, but significant things, such as finishing that load of laundry or doing something (...anything) with that chair you broke last year. While not big projects, they free up space and resources, they are no longer on your mind (or slipped it), and it helps prevent future issues, like realizing the shirt you want is crinkled at the bottom of the basket. 

When I think about it, few times do we hear about what makes a goal good? Three key features of a good goal include: 

• Clear statements that leave little room for ambiguity for yourself and others.
• Measurable and attainable outcomes that are realistically achievable and track-able for you.
• Disclosing key expectations clarifies specifics and minimizes doubled efforts.

Now, even without direct training, many of us put together pretty good goals. These set the foundation for accomplishing most of the general things we want to do. But you and I both know that more complex or higher stakes take more effort and better planning. 

Great goals are enhanced by: 

Realistic action steps – narrow down big ideas to doable actions 

Considering behaviors and beliefs – know yourself and how you think 

Foresight of barriers and overcomes them – think through obstacles 

Knowing yourself and your mindset helps you to consider challenges you may face which will drive better decisions and better action steps. Taking better action steps can reduce risks, leading to fewer barriers, leading to changing beliefs and behaviors.  

Setting great goals for yourself is more than just helping you feel accomplished, giving yourself moments of success changes your mindset and improves your confidence. 

Until next time.

Mark

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