How to: Set and achieve goals

The dos and don'ts of one of the key aspects of personal development.

The ability to set and achieve goals is one of the most invaluable personal development tools you can have. Goals give your life purpose and define the difference between success and failure.

So whether it is simply obtaining the desired outcome of an important meeting, or that you have your sights fixed on becoming a director of a FTSE 350 company, when you reach a goal that you have set, you must demonstrate to yourself and others that you can get on and get things done. It also says a lot about your motivation and focus.

Importantly, goals also provide a sense of direction and structure to a career path.

Document your goals

First, think about what it is you want to accomplish. Once you are clear in your mind, make it real by writing it down. Establish why these goals are important to you and be satisfied they are both realistic and the right choices.

If they are not worthwhile and possible, you won't be motivated or committed to achieving them.

When setting down your goals, state them in specific and numerically quantifiable terms. For example: "I'm going to complete stage one of project X in two weeks."

Avoid using imprecise words such as 'more', 'better', 'try' or 'improve'.

Create an action plan

Once you have defined your goals, work out the necessary steps to achieve the results. If it is a long-term goal, break it down into short- or medium-term goals and specify by when each stage will be completed. Be careful not to underestimate the timeframe required.

List any obstacles that might stand in the way of a successful outcome and think about who might be able to help overcome anything blocking your path.

Review your plan

Often, the response when something doesn't turn out as planned is to either give up or try again using the same approach.

If it doesn't work out the first time, try another method, path, plan or procedure. Also if you feel it isn't going so well at a particular point, rather than get sidetracked or slow down, review your plan and start afresh.

Picture your successes

To help you get what you want and boost your resolve further, clearly picture yourself reaching your goals. Visualise achieving them several times a day, particularly if you find it difficult to keep yourself motivated.

Evaluate your achievement

As you approach the completion of one set of goals, set aside time to establish new ones so you constantly have something to aim at. It is important to learn from experience, so review your performance and work out how you achieved your aims.

All too often, people only assess their performance if they have been unsuccessful in achieving goals, but analysing your success will enable you to aim even higher next time.

Celebrate your successes

It is important to value your accomplishments and recognise how far you have travelled along the way, so decide in advance how you will treat yourself once you've achieved your goals. This will also serve as an incentive as you work towards your short- or long-term goals.

If you only do five things:

• Set specific goals and deadlines
• Put it into writing
• Focus on positive outcomes
• Determine your own rewards for reaching each step and
• Monitor your success.