I know it’s only just started, but how has 2011 been going for you? Did you create some New Year’s Resolutions?
If you did, you might be interested to know that University of Minnesota research showed that 80 percent of people give up on their goals after only two months.
Will you fall into this majority — or will you achieve the success you crave?
There are often many reasons why we don’t achieve our goals. Sometimes the goals we set are unrealistic. Actually, New Year’s resolutions are typical examples. Suddenly, we expect to change the way we eat, or the way we exercise just because the calendar changes. It’s like expecting a child who’s never ridden a bike to suddenly jump on and go, or for you to run a marathon without months of training. These goals are based on illusion with little regard to natural growth. You must be able to crawl before you walk.
Over several decades, I’ve studied the great achievers of the world. What I discovered is they all share certain characteristics — and I immediately set to work, examining each characteristic of their achievement. My goal: to determine how I could break these down into easy-to-apply techniques anyone could use to successfully achieve their goals.
So, how do we set and achieve goals? Stephen R. Covey says it best in his book “7 Habits of Highly Effective People”. “To begin with the end in mind means to start with a clear understanding of your destination. It means to know where you’re going so that you better understand where you are now and so that the steps you take are always in the right direction.”
The benefits of Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Results orientated, Time-framed (S.M.A.R.T) goals have been written about for years. So, it follows that goal setting is obviously a powerful process that will achieve success with your goals.
Here’s an example of a S.M.A.R.T. goal that you might have chosen for 2011:
WHAT
My goal is to maintain a healthy body.
WHY
So that:
I can be fit to do the things I enjoy.
I can be an example to my children in health management.
I can build my personal character strength
HOW
Good nutrition: I will increase my intake of fresh fruits and vegetables and decrease my intake of sugar, fats, salt and red meat.
Physically: I will exercise aerobically 3 times a week for 30-minute periods.
Focus: I will be aware of my body and look out for any health problems.
Focusing on the smaller, short-term goals and achieving success will give you the confidence to set other goals. We remind clients it’s about, “eating the elephant, one bite at a time” and of turning your goals into achievable, actionable things. It’s the common denominator of successful individuals and businesses.
So, remember, set your goals based on the S.M.A.R.T. principle to have the best chance of achieving your goals.
Make 2011 your year of setting sensible, achievable goals…That’s great New Year’s resolution!
Improve your team and yourself in 2011…call Ohio Business Coach, Ralph Berge 440.838.0991
