Time Out

April 1st marked April Fools' Day, but more importantly it marked the end and beginning of the first and second quarters of 2008.  As a goal setter, I thought this was a great time for me to review the progress that I had made towards the achievement of my goals.  As I did that, I came up with a simple goal review system that I want to introduce to you today.

This goal review system consists of eight simple steps and helps you review all your goals, one goal at a time.  Do not worry if you do not have a lot of time in your hands, the whole process is simply answering the question asked under each step.

Step #1: State your original goal

What is it that you set out to do in the first place?

Be as precisely as you can.  Writing it down:  You need to always look back and say, 'When I set this goal, this is what I am/was aiming for.'

Step #2: Measure the progress that you have made on your goal

What are the things that you have done and you believe have moved you a step closer to the achievement of that which you set out to do?

If you are writing a book, out of the number of chapters that you expect to write, how many chapters have you written so far?  In whatever it is that you are doing or are supposed to have done, how far have you gone?

Step #3: State your current position

What's your position in relation to what you should have accomplished by now?

You can either be on target, off target or above target.  Knowing your current position will help you decide what you need to do next.

Step#4: Outline the obstacles that have been keeping you from your goal

What are the things that have held you back from the pursuit and achievement of that which you set out to do?

List all the things that you believe would make the pursuit of your goal easier if you had these things. These may be the lack of certain material possessions, the lack of emotional support of your peers or anything that comes to mind.

Step #5: Outline the things that have been driving you closer to your goals

What are the things that have propelled you forward towards the pursuit and achievement of that which you set out to do?

Likewise, list all the things that you believe have made the pursuit of your goal easier or less impossible.

Step #6: State the strategy that you are going to take towards your goals

In the light of the obstacles that you have faced and the things that have propelled you forward what is your action plan?

Come up with an action plan. Carefully consider the things that are to your advantage and decide what you are going to do to see to it that you achieve your goal. While you are at it, keep in mind the obstacles that you have to overcome as this will help you keep it real. However, if there's nothing to your advantage in relation to any particular goal of yours do not hesitate to drop that goal.  

Step #7: Restate your goal or set a new goal

From this point forth, what are you setting out to do?

What is your goal?  Is it still the one you set at the beginning of the year or you have made some changes to cater for the things that have either been holding you back or propelling you forward?

Step #8: State and date the outcomes that you want to see

What do you expect to see and [by] when?

Mark down all the milestones and achievements that you want to see as you pursue your goal.  These can also be used as signposts to your progress at every step of your journey to doing whatever it is that you set out to do.

Be inspired.

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