I am a big believer in goal setting. I find that the only way I can focus and get things done is by creating goals for myself. I think I am successful at it because it seems when anyone needs to get something done, they turn to me. I’d like to share my process with you.
I try to allow myself quiet time where I can think about where I want to be, what I want to accomplish and ask God for help during my prayer time. Once I come up with a plan, I set goals. My goals can be broken down into steps or tasks.
- I have a To Do List where I write everything that needs to get done down. That way, I don’t clutter my mind with worries of what I might have forgotten to do. I sleep better at night, and I am able to focus on the task at hand. I am not distracted by outside thoughts when focusing on my current task.
- I take larger tasks that require multiple steps and break them down into smaller pieces. The more pieces I break the task into the better. That way as I chip away at the smaller tasks, I feel a sense of accomplishment.
- I set due dates for my tasks. Without due dates, I will put off that task as I’ve not set a time to have the task completed.
- I have an accountability partner that I can share my tasks with so that I know I must own up to anything I have not gotten to in the time I’ve set for myself.
- I review my list at least once a day to ensure that all tasks that have deadlines (other than my personal deadlines) are complete to avoid any penalties or issues.
- I take the time to celebrate my accomplishments. I just love checking off completed tasks.
I’m sure you have all heard of the acronym SMART goals. SMART standing for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Timely. It goes without saying, all goals need to meet SMART.
No matter where you are in setting goals, I encourage you to take a step further in the process. I know I am always looking for ways to improve my process.
Barbara Flynn, MSHR, SPHR, SHRM-SCP
