Wednesday, February 22, 2006

How to set goals to succeed?

How to set goals to succeed

IN ANY game we play, how do we know we have won? In cricket, we know we have won when we score a number of runs within the stipulated overs without losing wickets. Similarly in life and in the workplace, we know we have won or are doing well when we have kept the `score' or set goals and targets. Without goals, we are just meandering and drifting, getting a false sense of playing without growing or accomplishing anything solid and tangible. A goal gives us a sense of purpose, direction and is a constant reminder of the focus we need, should we temporarily deviate.

Goals are beneficial in the workplace because they keep us focussed on what we want to achieve. They are, in essence, a measure of our progress. After you determine what it is that you would like to achieve, it is important that you state your goal in a way that is realistic to your situation. Use the following guidelines when setting your goals.

1. Write them down: When dealing with your goals it is beneficial to write them down so you have a visual representation of what you wish to accomplish. That way you can look at it every day and be reminded of them.

2. Make goals clear: It is important that your goals are clear and concise and state exactly what you wish to achieve. Be as specific as possible when creating your goals. For instance, state the date by which you want to accomplish your goal as well as the methods you are going to use to reach it. If your goal is too vague there is more of a chance that you might not be driven to accomplish it.

3. Make goals reasonable and measurable: Remember that your mission is to actually accomplish your goal! Therefore, be realistic with what you wish to achieve. However, this is not saying that you should forget about long-term goals. In dealing with larger aspirations, it may be more advantageous to break goals into smaller 'sub-goals' that are easier to tackle. And don't forget to make them measurable so that you can measure whether they have been achieved and to what degree.

4. Be flexible: Often we may not be able to accomplish our goals on the first try. Don't let that frustrate you! Sometimes goals need to be evaluated and altered. We cannot account for certain roadblocks, so feel free to alter your goals when it is necessary.

Setting goals will assist you in your own development. You will achieve a sense of pride when you look back on the goals that you have accomplished and will be even more determined to set higher goals for yourself in the future.

PALLAVI JHA

Managing Director
Dale Carnegie Training India
Thanks to THE HINDU

M.S. Dhoni - The upcoming unconventional king of cricket
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