WHY IS IT so important to set goals?
Everyone has different reasons for setting goals. I will share some of mine. Perhaps you will be inspired to find your own reasons.
• Happiness – People that set goals and achieve them are generally happier than those that don’t. There is a natural high that comes with goal setting and achievement. No chemical can reproduce this feeling.
• Reaching God-given potential – I believe it is truly a shame not to reach our potential. Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr. said, “Most people die with their music still in them.” This is really sad to me and I wouldn’t want it to become a reality in my case.
• My family and other relationships – This is probably my biggest WHY. What I mean by my “Why” is what drives me—the deep reason for striving towards my goal.
What are your reasons for setting goals? When you know what drives you, and especially when you are aware of your biggest WHY, you gain clarity on what makes your goals worth the challenges that come with reaching them.
There are many teachings available on goal setting. Most of them are overly complex. Here is a simple approach you can take.
1. Make your goals specific – Goals should be specific because they will have a much greater chance of success than a general goal. An example of a general goal is, “Get in shape.” A specific goal would be “Lose 15 pounds.” You’ll want to set specific goals so you know when you’ve accomplished them. If you set a general goal of “Lose weight,” what happens if you lose an ounce? You might not be satisfied even though you technically “lost weight.”
2. Make your goals measurable – All goals should have a date attached to them. A goal without a deadline is just a dream. Having a target date to reach your goal will create some healthy pressure to keep you on track. It’s OK if you don’t hit your goal in time. You’ll still be further along than if you hadn’t set the goal in the first place.
3. State your goals in the present tense – Goals should be stated in the present tense. This way you can visualize it as a reality.
By incorporating these three guidelines into your goal setting, your likelihood to succeed in reaching your goals increases dramatically.