Since it’s a new year, it’s a great time to think about our goals, both business and personal. Our professional success is impacted not only by what happens at work, but how we manage our personal lives are well. The more organized and on track we are in our personal lives, the more effective we can be at work.
Most are aware that people who write down and review their goals are much more likely to be successful than those who do not. But if you’re like me, it’s probably been a while since you did it.
Last year I decided to write down my goals, review them regularly, and track my accomplishments. While 2008 was a pretty tough year (thanks recession!), I feel it was one of my most productive and fulfilling years to date. I achieved most of my goals for 2008, and the gratification that came from it helped me deal with many unexpected challenges. I believe my focus on goals, combined with frequent review and assessment, made a big difference for me in 2008.
If you’d like to do the same, feel free to use my Goal Setting Template (click to download via google docs – select “choose other application” for .doc version). The categories are organized based on what made sense to me. But everyone is different so feel free to edit as you see fit.
In addition to defining your goals, you should also define the steps required to achieve each goal. Goals are great but you need an action plan. For each goal you can add the steps for achieving it.
Next, you’ll also see some activity logs you can use to track how often you review your goals as well as your progress in achieving them. Each time you review your goals record the date. Each time you achieve a goal mark it down. Track your progress against each goal throughout the year.
Print and keep your goals and activity logs and keep them handy. I keep mine by my bed so I can review them each morning.
Writing down your goals is an important first step. Of equal importance is that you review them frequently. It’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day; if you review your goals at least once a week, you can rise above the daily hassles and keep your eye on the prize.
I hope this is helpful and that you see great results in 2009. Feel free to share with others and let me know what you think!
Best wishes for 2009!
