By Brenda W Hargroves
Ah January!
The inevitable month for goalsetting. Of goal-setting? To goal set? To set goals? Whatever. I’m sure you get my drift. Incidentally, how’s it going so far?
Many of us perform the same painstaking task of setting a goal for the coming new year.
I’m going to eat healthy. I’m going to work on my stress level. I’m going to save more.
The question is – do you practice this goal-setting habit? Be honest. You know who you are!
It’s uncomfortable enough, committing to a goal related to your physical appearance or mental well-being. Setting goals related to managing your finances can be even more stressful. That is, unless you’ve been doing it for years.
Fortunately, I fit into this category. I don’t remember exactly when I started setting financial goals. But I can tell you, I was young.
To me, that’s Key #1. The easiest way to become relaxed with setting financial goals is to start early. After all, the earlier you start to practice a habit, the sooner that habit becomes a way of life.
OK, so maybe you don’t fit into this category. That brings me to Key #2. I suggest the following goal management philosophy to help you realistically manage the pressure of setting and reaching any goal. Do What You Can, With What You Have, Where You Are.
Do What You Can – Figure out a goal you can reasonably accomplish with effort – doable but requires a stretch.
With What You Have – There is a starting point associated with regard to any desired goal. Your focus is to get from Point A to Point B.
Where You Are – Your situation is what it is; however, it’s never too late to set a goal that reaches for improvement.
Several factors increase the chances of successfully accomplishing your goals.
Make your goal specific.
Instead of: I’m going to exercise more. Make the goal to walk a minimum of a mile at least 4 days a week.
Instead of: I’m going to work on my stress level. Make the goal to attend a yoga class at least twice a week.
Instead of: I’m going to save more. Make the goal to set up an automatic 10% paycheck withdrawal directed to a savings account.
Consider how your goal fits into your overall vision.
Why is your goal important to you?
Examine the steps you need to take to reach your goal.
What life changes do you have to make for success?
How difficult is it going to be to make those changes?
Determine benchmarks.
How will you determine if you are on the right track towards successfully reaching your goal?
Let’s face it. Setting goals is easy. But reaching them can be another story. In my opinion, the best approach is:
Find the sweet spot between a goal that is too hard and one that is too easy to accomplish so you are comfortably stretching.
Commit to your goals by writing them down and placing them where they are a visible reminder.
Reward yourself as you reach your benchmarks!
Don’t be too hard on yourself if your first attempt is unsuccessful. Figure out what went wrong and adjust.
Happy 2021 goalsetting. May the force be with you!
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