When goal setting, how often have you or your manager felt a surge of optimism and declared goals that reach for the sky? When the initial fire ebbs away and reality sets in, we realize it was a pipe dream.  

Or maybe it wasn’t, but the goal was not realistic based on where you are today.  

While goal setting is an absolute must in both our personal and professional lives, there is a right way to set goals.  And not just set goals but set goals that are realistic and won’t leave you feeling deflated and frustrated. 

3 Tips to Master Goal Setting:

First, be a realist.  

Everyone knows this but we often forget it in our excitement about the future.  Aim for attainable goals, and by attainable, I mean possible given the resources, situation and time that you have. Don’t let hyped-up emotions cloud your judgment. 

At work get the feedback of people who will perform the day-to-day tasks needed to reach the goals. If they seriously think it’s possible, then it’s possible.  It’s important that these people are on the same page as you, from the specific goals set to the processes in place to reach it.

When setting goals write them down and then step away for a day or two. When you go back to them do they still seem realistic?  If the answer isn’t a resounding yes it’s time to reassess what needs adjusting to make it realistic for you.

Be consistent.

If you are a manager or business owner, goal setting should be in line with the bigger goals of the company. Lack of consistency will throw off the focus of your team, and they will be questioning the purpose of the goals you set in place.

When your goals are in line with the bigger picture, employees will see how your current goals are in tune with previous goals that were attained. This sets a chain of goals and achievement and excitement about the possibilities.  

The same is true for personal goal setting.   They should be in line with what’s important to you.  Getting an advanced degree to help further your career options might be a good goal.  Doing so because others you know are will soon become a drag on your time and energy.  

Be supportive and get support and help.

Remember that the crucial part of goal setting doesn’t just end when you lay out your plans- providing support to team members as the actual work is being done is of equal importance.

Check-in with your colleagues and team members on a regular basis.

Reassess the goals together when morale is low or when challenges are faced. Reminding yourself and your team of the reasons for the goals can do wonders to invigorate everyone and move you forward. 

Don’t go it alone when goal setting.  Whether the goals are personal or professional, we all need support and help.  Ask a colleague, friend, significant other for support. There is nothing wrong with getting the help you need to ensure you can and will achieve your goals. 

When goal-setting, think of your present goals as your future accomplishments. The importance of setting the right things to reach for cannot be emphasized enough.  There is a thin line between realistic and delusional so make sure yours are realistic.

Goal setting is something we as individuals and companies avoid or do so poorly we aren’t set up for success.  In fact, we may even be setting ourselves up for failure. 

Learn how to avoid this by downloading The Guide to Creating Goals and Milestones.