Goals...

As I grew older I believed that goals could be obtained. In order to achieve my goals, I first needed to identify them. The way I learned to identify my goals was to put them in writing. If I wanted to run 5 miles by the end of Summer, I would put that in writing. I figured that goals should be defined and not ambiguous. Don't write "I want to lose weight"... instead write "I want to lose 20 pounds". Writing them down made them very tangible and extremely real.

The next step I used was to look at it everyday. Constant reminders kept me focused and dedicated. Understanding that the more I saw my goals in writing, the more I would remember them was critical to achieving them. Waking up to a sign that read "5 miles by the end of summer" helped me stay on track. You must stay focused.

Once it was in writing and while constantly pounding it into my head, I went one step further. I began to tell everyone about it. Talking about it and informing others created a bit of pressure to get it done I wouldn't have felt otherwise. I was being held accountable by every person who asked me about it. I wouldn't only be embarrassing myself but letting others down. Hard work and determination will accomplish anything.

I used this three step concept of writing things down, embedding it, and telling others continually. I then proceeded to divide seemingly unobtainable goals into obtainable goals. For my example of wanting to run 5 miles a day by the end of summer, I created smaller daily goals that I would accomplish. I would strive for 2 miles a day that week, write it in a journal, look at it, and tell my partner and friends. By achieving a series of smaller goals, I was able to achieve my ultimate goal before I knew it.

Goals were meant to be accomplished. Good luck and make dreams come true...