How to Set Goals You’ll Want to Achieve!

Setting goals is an important part of time management and career development. However, goals on their own aren’t enough. When learning how to set goals, it’s important to choose ones that you can and want to achieve. You don’t need to bite off more than you can chew. It needs to be something you believe you can eventually fulfill. 

From the little tasks you set for yourself each day to your five-year plan, every goal you have needs to feel achievable. If it feels unreachable, it’s hard to even know where to begin. Let’s take a closer look at what it means to set realistic goals that you actually want to achieve. 

What is Goal Setting and Why Do it?

Goal setting is establishing an objective that you plan to complete. This helps you plan and achieve your hopes for the future. It also helps you decide which tasks need to be accomplished and when. It also helps you organize your resources. These goals can be for personal development, career advancement, or day-to-day tasks.

Setting goals helps provide a direction to strive for, whether in life or at work. It can give you the motivation to complete your projects and help define what is important at the moment. Knowing what your goals are can help you decide what tasks align with your needs. It can also give you the confidence to change behaviors and improve your abilities to reach your goals.  

How to Start Setting Goals

Here are a few steps to help you outline your goals. When setting goals, it’s important to keep these key steps in mind.

Write it Down

Your goals will likely slip your mind if you don’t have a physical reminder to refer back to. You are far more likely to achieve your goals if you have them written down. You can also map out a concrete outline for achieving it. This works for both short and long-term goals. Make a list to help you stay focused and on-task. 

Get Specific

Being vague can make it hard to really know what you’re striving for. Be specific about your goals and how you plan to achieve them. Outline concrete, realistic steps to follow. 

Pick a Date 

Create a due date. You might be the only one who knows about it, but due dates help stave off procrastination. Choose a timeframe that is doable. Don’t overtax yourself trying to hit a due date that was set too soon. 

Get Real About Your Motivation

Your motivation has to be strong enough to carry you through to the end of your goal. Be specific, honest, and line your reasoning up with your values. This way, you are far more likely to follow through on your commitment. 

Choose Trackable Goals

A goal or milestone that you can measure is much easier to keep track of. You have a greater chance of achieving a goal when you can track your progress toward it. It will help you lay out what needs to be done and how far you have come. Use something measurable like money, time, size, or a tangible number. 

Create a Plan of Action

Your plan of action should include detailed steps and strategies to use. The clearer your plan is, the more likely you are to reach your goal. 

Identify and Refute Your Objections

Comb through every negative thought or mental rejection you have while planning to meet your goal. Once you have your objections, write a rebuttal for each one. Counteract your insecurities or questions with facts about your abilities or how you plan to overcome any shortcomings. 

Manage Your Time

Manage your time responsibly. Poor time management skills will only hinder your ability to achieve your goal. Get the best results by improving your time management. Find a system that works for you and use it to make better use of your time. 

Observe and Be Flexible

Things change, it is just a fact of life. Whether your goal shifts or your method needs to be tweaked, be flexible and readjust as needed. 

Tools to Help You Set Goals and More With ASAP

The American Society of Administrative Professionals has a wide range of resources for admins looking to improve their craft. Learn about creating a system for setting goals. We offer articles, webinars, events, and more to help you stay current in the ever-changing professional world. Become a member today and get free weekly resources.