How to set goals correctly? Each of us wants something. Some dream of a new profession, some want to lose weight, and some want to save money for a dream trip. But here’s the catch: many dreams remain just dreams. We tell ourselves: “I’ll start on Monday”, “I’ll get started in the New Year”, “As soon as I have time…”. But time passes, and we’re still at the start.
Why does this happen? It’s all about incorrectly set goals. If you don’t have a clear understanding of what you want and how to achieve it, then it becomes difficult to move forward. But if the goal is formulated correctly, that’s already half the success. Let’s figure out why it’s so important to be able to set goals and how it affects life.
Why is it important to set goals correctly?
When we set a clear goal, life becomes easier:
We know where to go. Without a goal, a person is like a ship without a rudder – it seems to be sailing, but it is not clear where.
We get motivated. When the end result is visible, it becomes easier to work.
We manage our time better. A goal helps us prioritize and not waste resources.
We achieve success faster. A correctly set goal gives an understanding of what steps need to be taken.
But if the goal is set incorrectly (too vague, unrealistic or without deadlines), it turns into a useless dream.
How to set goals correctly?
There are several effective methods that help formulate goals correctly. Let’s look at the main ones.
SMART Method
This method is one of the most popular because it makes goals clear and achievable.
SMART is an abbreviation of five principles:
S (Specific) — Specificity
Formulate the goal clearly and understandably. For example, instead of “I want to play sports” it is better to say “I will go to the gym 3 times a week”.
M (Measurable) — Measurability
How do you know that you have achieved the goal? “Earn more” is not measurable, but “Earn 100,000 rubles a month” is already a specific result.
A (Achievable) — Attainability
The goal must be realistic. “I want to become an astronaut” at 40 years old without training is hardly achievable. But “Enroll in pilot courses” is more realistic.
R (Relevant)
The goal should be important to you personally, and not imposed by society or family.
T (Time-bound)
Deadlines are needed, otherwise the goal is easily postponed. “I want to learn English” is abstract, and “I will pass the IELTS exam in 6 months” is specific.
An example of a SMART goal:
“In 6 months, I will run 5 km non-stop, training 3 times a week.”
The “Reverse Planning” Method
This method works well if the goal seems too big.
The idea: first imagine the end result, and then move backwards step by step, developing a plan.
For example, you want to open a cafe in a year.
The end goal: Open a cafe.
What do you need a month before opening? Get all the permits.
What do you need in three months? Find a location.
What do you need in six months? Develop a concept.
What do you need now? Analyze the market.
This makes the goal clear and less daunting.
Method “One big and three small goals”
This method helps to distribute energy correctly.
The essence of the method:
One main goal is the most important, on which the main focus is concentrated.
Three auxiliary goals are additional, which are also important, but do not take up all your energy.
For example:
Main goal: “Learn Spanish in a year.” Auxiliary 1: “Start exercising regularly.” Auxiliary 2: “Read 12 books a year.” Auxiliary 3: “Save up $10,000 for a trip.”
This approach helps not to scatter and move towards different goals at the same time.
How to make sure that goals don’t just remain on paper?
Okay, so you’ve set the right goal. But how do you actually start moving toward it?
Write down your goals
Research shows that written goals are more likely to be achieved. Write them down in a notebook, in an app, or hang the list on your wall.
Break the goal down into small steps
Any big goal seems daunting when you look at it as a whole. But if you break it down into steps, it becomes easier.
For example, “Learn Spanish” can be broken down like this:
In the first month, learn 500 words.
In the second, start watching TV series in Spanish.
In the third, take a few lessons with a teacher.
Every small step makes the goal more realistic.
Take the first step right now
Don’t put it off until “Monday” or “next month.” Do something today. Let it be a small action, but it will start the process.
Track your progress
You can keep a diary, mark completed tasks in a tracker, or set reminders. When you see that you are moving forward, it motivates you to continue.
Have “Reset Days”
Once a month, analyze: What have you already done? What went well? What can be improved?
Sometimes it is useful to adjust goals – if you understand that they are no longer relevant.
What to do if motivation is lost?
Sometimes enthusiasm fades and the goal no longer seems so interesting. What to do in such a case?
Remember why you started. Reread your goal and why it’s important. Change your approach. Maybe your methods aren’t working and it’s time to try a new path? Find support. Friends, mentors, or social media groups can encourage you. Take a break. Sometimes a break can help you regain your strength and motivation.
A correctly set goal is already half the success. The main thing:
Formulate it clearly and specifically (SMART method).
Break it down into stages (reverse planning).
Focus on the main thing (one big and three small goals).
Write down, track and adjust your progress.
Don’t be afraid to change the plan if something doesn’t work.
When the goal is clear and the plan is understandable, all that remains is to act. And this is the most important step.
