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Step 3 Setting Goals

by Dr. Jacob Mathew, Moderator, DietBuddy

In steps 1 and 2 we made an inventory of where we are and how we got here through introspection and research. Now we are ready to take the step towards the future. This involves goal setting. This is a very important part of our journey. So, read and follow this step. It can also help in your personal and career success.

Steps 4-7, that follows this further clarifies the process of goal setting. So, as you go forward the steps should become clearer.

Here is a sneak preview of what the following steps are:

step 4 Set realistic goals
step 5 Make the goals personal
step 6 Set a time frame for accomplishing the goals
step 7 Set little goals that lead to bigger goals

Step 3. Set goals

The road to achievement starts with a goal. Implant that goal in your mind and think about it all day long. Pay the price by making sacrifices. Take small steps towards your goal every day, instead of occasional bursts of activity.

Craig Locke

Once you know your life purpose, determine your vision, and clarify what your true needs and desires are, you have to convert them into specific, measurable goals and objectives and then act on them with the certainty that you will achieve them.

Experts on the science of success know the brain is a goal-seeking organism. Whatever goal you give to your subconscious mind, it will work night and day to achieve.

Jack Canfield, in "The Success Principles" 
(author of "Chicken Soup for the Soul" series)

What are the Characteristics of a Good Goal?

To make sure a goal unleashes the power of your subconscious mind, it must meet two criteria. It must be stated in a way that you and anybody else could measure it. I will lose 10 pounds is not as powerful as I will weigh 135 pounds by 5 PM on June 30. The second is clearer, because anybody can show up at 5 o'clock on June 30 and look at the reading on your scale. It will either be 135 pounds or less or not. Notice that the two criteria are how much (some measurable quantity such as pages, pounds, dollars, square feet, or points) and by when (a specific time and date).

Jack Canfield, in "The Success Principles"

Goals should be specific and measurable. Jack Canfield says that when there are no criteria for measurement, it is simply something you want, a wish, a preference, a good idea. To reach your goals, the brain must know exactly, precisely, what you are trying to accomplish. Never word a goal with vague terms. Be specific! If you want to lose 8 pounds and reach a weight of 175, specify those exact numbers. Your brain can help you accomplish almost anything if it knows precisely what you are aiming for.

For example:

I want to lose weight - This is a good idea or wish. Unfortunately it is not a goal as it is not specific. How can you tell whether you have accomplished the goal?

I will weigh 185 pounds by 5 PM, January 1,2006 - Now this is a good goal. We can check to see whether you have met the goal on January 1, 2006. 

Your goals must be rational. It must be achievable.

To reach your goal, you will need a plan, a path, and a vehicle for getting there. Your goals must make sense! When you explain them to friends and family, your goals should create excitement, draw support, and encouragement. Your goals should be just out of reach, but not out of sight! You want to stretch to be your best, not strain after impossible dreams. Set goals you CAN and WILL achieve!

Write Down Your Goals

A goal isn't a goal until you put it down on paper. Writing the goals in detail gives clarity and specificity to your goals. Write it down as if you are writing specifications for a work order. It should be easy for someone else to track it down if necessary.

One good way is to make your goals into a poster or sampler. You can also write it on a piece of paper and tape it to your refrigerator door, bathroom mirror, dashboard of your car. This way you can see your goals every day.

Tell others about your goal

After writing down the goals, say it out loud and then tell others about it.

We are far more likely to stick to our plan and reach our goals if we know our friends and family support us. Being part of a team increases our determination, our stamina, and our courage. DietBuddy will help you in this task.

Caution: Never share your goals with anyone who may ridicule, tease or discourage you! The world is full of doubters and you have no time for them. But, find a support team, a group of cheerleaders, and a coach who will encourage you every step of the way. Work with other winners!

Action Steps:

1. Read the following articles:

The Top 10 Steps to Set and Achieve Your Goals - Every Time!
http://ecomhelp.com/KB/inspiration/kb_the-top-10-steps-to-set-and-achieve.htm
Top achievers know that the wording, structure, timing and format of a goal can make it’s achievement much easier – or far more difficult. Top achievers understand the basic skills for setting and reaching their goals, every time! They know how to design goals that create success. Here are the 10 most important steps to set and achieve your goals:

The Top 10 Secrets to Achieving Any Goal http://ecomhelp.com/KB/inspiration/kb_the-top-10-secrets-toachieving-any-goals.htm
Most of us have the experience of being unable to reach our goals. Here are 10 steps that are almost like magic! They will help you reach your goals, every time!

Top Ten Ways to Get Unstuck and Reach Your Goals

http://ecomhelp.com/KB/inspiration/kb_top-ten-ways-to-get-unstuck.htm
We all get stuck from time to time. Here are the top ten ways to get going again.

Willingness Pays Off

http://ecomhelp.com/KB/inspiration/kb_inspiration-willingness-pays-off.htm
When it comes to goal setting, and actually more importantly, goal achieving, there are numerous things involved. Like knowledge of how-to, and having the right tools, and the support of others. But there's probably no more important ingredient in Goal Achieving than willingness.

2. Read chapter 7 from the Book, The Success Principle by Jack Canfield. You can probably get this book from your library. (If you cannot find the book, don't worry. Get some other book on goal setting instead.

3. Write Down your goals using these principles. Share it with your dietbuddies.

Next: Step 4: Your Goals Must Be Realistic