A goal differs from a dream as it has not only an image but also real ways to achieve it. You can only dream and fantasize about it without the specific measures that make approaching the goal possible.
How to set a goal and achieve it
A goal is ideal, mental anticipation of the result of human actions and ways to achieve it with certain means.
In other words, a goal is a possible, imaginable future event or state of something, the realization of which is desirable for the person (personal image of the future). Thus, the means and possible ways necessary for its achievement are always associated with the goal.
Otherwise, this desirable future would be only a fruitless reverie. The goal is always something the person performs concrete actions for. No action, no goal. And vice versa.
How to set goals correctly?
The realization of our desires and dreams depends greatly on how well we set goals. Goal-setting rules help to transform our aspirations and desires into reality. Therefore, in this article, we will consider in detail the question – “How to set goals?” and understand how to transfer our desires and dreams into the category of clear goals that can be achieved.
1. Rely only on your own strength
Before you set goals, make a note that all responsibility for its implementation falls entirely on you. So there was no temptation to blame someone else for any of your failures, set a goal that you can achieve without any help. This goal-setting rule will keep you from drawing the wrong conclusions later on (in case you don’t achieve something) when working on mistakes. But if, for example, your goal is an A in physics, which you have a little trouble with, be honest with yourself. Are you able to write the assignment on your own, or maybe you need physics homework help? This approach will help you look at things more realistically.
2. Formulate your goals correctly
First, goals, like ideas, should be written down on paper (notepad, diary). A goal that is written down in detail has a much better chance of being realized. If you believe that you can, without formulating goals on paper to keep them in mind, do not flatter yourself about their achievement. Such goals can safely be classified as dreams. Dreams and desires chaotically wander in our heads, they are messy, disorderly, and we do not understand them to the end.
The efficiency of such goals-dreams is very low; in reality, they are achieved very rarely. Even in words we often cannot describe what we want. Therefore, the formulation of goals should always be held with a pencil in hand.
Setting and formulating goals by writing down includes our subconscious mind in active work, the formulated goal gives confidence and makes each next step meaningful.
3. Break big goals into subgoals
Any great goal seems impossible to achieve as long as it does not begin to divide into parts. For example, the desire to buy property abroad seems at first glance not feasible. But if we move towards the goal systematically, dividing it into steps, it will be easier to achieve it.
Setting complex (global) goals and objectives, with their division into smaller ones, has a great motivational effect. Achieving one, even a small goal, will give you the satisfaction and desire to go further. Achieving the short-range goals, you gain the strength and confidence to achieve the long-range ones. Your way of thinking will gradually change.
4. Specifying the goal
Often the reason why a goal is not achieved is that it is not specific, meaning:
- Lack of a formulated specific result.
- The result cannot be measured.
- Lack of a clear deadline.
Remember, you are much more likely to achieve a goal if you are specific.
5. Correcting the Goal
Be flexible! Just because you set a goal doesn’t mean you can’t make adjustments. Anything can happen, and there can be circumstances that can slow or speed up the achievement of the goal, so you need to be prepared to adjust the goal. Remember that stagnant aspirations have never made anyone successful or happy. Life is changing, and you need to be able to change with it!
6. Believe in the achievability of your goal
After formulating and setting a specific goal, you need to fix it in your subconscious. It happens that consciously seeking to achieve the goal, subconsciously we are not ready to make it. You can want the goal, but deep inside do not believe in its feasibility, not to believe in your abilities, or just consider yourself unworthy. It is not enough to formulate the goal correctly; it is necessary to fill it with the energy of confidence – this is the most important condition of readiness to achieve the goal.