In
2005 Create Solutions instead of Resolutions We tend to
assume that life will give us another chance tomorrow at whatever came up
yesterday and today. But if we really pay attention, we see that no single
day is like another. Every morning brings a hidden blessing that serves
only for that day and cannot be saved or used again. If we don't use
today's gift, it will be lost. Paulo Coelho
Prior
Preparation
Prevents
Poor
Performance are the 5 P's that fundamentally underpin successful
goal setting. However, they are characteristically lacking when most of us
reveal our New Year Resolutions.
Peak Performers, who are
naturally 'doers', don't talk about New Year Resolutions, they plan New
Year
Solutions and consistently achieve their goals. Not because
they expect to achieve their goals, (though that does play an important
role in their success (enhanced through visualisation) but because Peak
Performers adopt and embrace the essential principles behind the 5 P's.
For some people, this time of year is an opportunity to reminisce
over previous years resolutions and wonder in amazement why their dreams
remain unfulfilled. For the minority though, it's a time of excitement, a
time to re-evaluate, plan and a time to rejoice over what's already been
accomplished.
As you reflect on the forthcoming annual ritual of
declaring New Year Resolutions, ask yourself:
- what actions or changes are you going to make to ensure your
experiences are different and that history doesn't repeat itself?
- What characteristic or habit do you want to alter that would improve
your life be it your finances or career; your emotional or physical
health; or maybe your communication and relationships?
Remember,
you will only achieve goals you set yourself. This is because a change
imposed is a change opposed - ignore all goals that begin with 'I should'
- they belong to someone else, not you.
Also, the skill of goal
setting doesn't just apply to us as adults; lead by example and give the
gift of goal setting to those around you including your children.
Goal-setting starts with exploring mental attitudes, 'value and
belief' systems as well as enthusiasm, commitment and motivation towards
achievement. It's more important to concentrate on what you want to:
Then justify your goals - why is it important? i.e.
- Will it make you a happier, healthier, better person?
- Will this goal improve your career, or enhance your relationships?
- Is it morally right to all concerned to achieve this goal?
By clarifying your personal values, your goals become naturally
motivating.
Next, categorise your goals into short, medium and
long term. Prioritise your goals in order of importance on a scale of 1 -
10. At the same time check if any goals clash and if your actions are
likely to take you closer or further away from your main goal.
Then put a deadline against each goal. Now list what actions you
are doing that you shouldn't be doing and what you should be doing that
you are currently not doing to achieve your goals.
Finally, it is
your responsibility to review and evaluate your goals on an ongoing basis.
As you achieve them, keep the momentum going and replace them with new
goals. But do write them down every time. Peak Performers write them up on
dozens of postcards for easy access and regular visualisation exercises.
The reading of goals starting first thing in the morning and finishing
last thing at night is nurturing your brain and essential to success. We
feed our bodies, why not our minds?
Action without clarity of
purpose is useless. Therefore, purpose, desired outcomes, commitment and
actions must all be defined.
If a goal isn't specific, you can't
measure it. If you don't think it's achievable or realistic in the
timeframe then it's not a SMARTER goal. The answer must be 'yes' to each
of the criteria laid down to ensure success.
It's also important
to acknowledge that major changes may need to be broken down into a series
of smaller changes. For example if your goal is to secure a particular
promotion or a new house, you may be required to fulfil a sequence of
events and activities before you are able to achieve the end result.
If you agree with the importance of goal setting in every day life
and want to live the life you deserve, plan your goals for 2005
and
beyond NOW. Don't waste another day.
In conclusion,
in goal
achievement there is no success or failure. There is only a result.
Success or failure is simply a label that only YOU can attach to the end
result achieved. The key is to learn from an experience. After all,
the definition of insanity is defined by someone doing the same thing over
and over while expecting a different outcome.
Dawn Campbell
Head of
Newsletters
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