Goal Setting – 7 Basic Criteria For Setting and Achieving Goals
Each year many of us set goals that are fuzzy dreams. We visualize a cloudy idea of what we want but all too often we never take action, not because we do not want to but because we do not know how. To achieve a goal, one must know clearly what it is. We must crystallize our thoughts creating specifics, not vague ideas.
There are 7 basic criteria for goal setting. A goal must be -
Conceivable
Believable
Achievable
Controllable
Measurable
Stated with no alternatives
Growth facilitating
Goal Setting
In other words, a goal must be visualized in detail, not as a lofty dream that is fuzzy. The goal setter must have belief in his capabilities to take the actions necessary… to do the work. A goal must be within the goal setters range of capabilities. The first three criteria are basic and easy to understand.
The goal setter should state the goal in terms of activities that he can control. As an example, “I am going to take my wife to dinner” is not a goal. However, “I am going to ask my wife to go to dinner this evening” is a properly stated goal. The goal setter can control the activity of asking his wife. However, he cannot control her response.
A goal is measurable if one can track progress. In other words, if a person sets a goal to save ,000 dollars by June, he must put in place the steps that would get him to success by June. He may begin by creating smaller short term goals such as saving 0 a month. He can track his progress by measuring his monthly success.
Many of us have the tendency to falter on the next criteria, stated with no alternatives. A goal is the end result. One may change the necessary activities to get to the goal. One may make alterations in the route to a goal. However, the goal, the end result must be stated without the option of making excuses for not following through.
Goals must be growth facilitating. In other words, one must stretch to reach the goal. One must learn something new or change activities. Goals are reaching beyond our comfort level. Otherwise, we are performing familiar activities. Perhaps the true benefit of goal setting and achievement is that we grow and learn from new experiences.
The seven basic criteria for goal setting and achievement will work in any situation, from managers to sales people, from mothers to students. Following the seven steps will set one up for success if followed through with action.
Goal Setting – 7 Basic Criteria For Setting and Achieving Goals
Maggie Mae spent fifteen years working for a Fortune 500 company teaching goal setting [http://www.recreatingreality.com/2008/10/21/set-a-goal/] and sales training techniques, teaching managers how to successfully work with staff to achieve corporate goals, and keeping the staff motivated by sound principles, not fluff. Since that time Maggie has worked one on one with business people, managers, start up businesses and individuals to achieve goals. Presently, Maggie is authoring Recreating Reality [http://www.recreatingreality.com] to share her knowledge and know how with those who wish to create success in all areas of their lives.
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