The best way to a fresh start to success is goals and milestones. The true definition of these terms are as follows:
- Goal: the object of a person’s ambition or effort; an aim or desired result.
- Milestone: an action or event marking a significant change or stage in development.
In other words, what do you want and when do you want it?
The goal(s) could be anything but the milestone should be realistic. For example, I’m a recent college graduate with about $2,000. I have a goal to get a house, but my milestone isn’t to go get one tomorrow. A goal more suitable for my immediate timeframe is to get an apartment first, then a house in maybe 5, no more than 10, years. My end goal is still the same but my milestone is more appropriate. It gives me more time to build myself up and prepare for such a huge decision and responsibility.
This post is obviously dedicated to goal setting, and this is where I start my list.
These are the goals I hope to achieve by the end of 2017 and the end of 2018, along with my dreaded student debt (which is obviously a long-term goal). Some are more important than others, but a goal is a goal no matter how small. Speaking of which, I’ve struggled with acne, and with it scarring. With a new skin care regime I have a goal to clear my face of all blemishes by the end of 2017 as well.
That leads to my next point. As goals get checked off, new ones will come to mind. They are always changing as you grow and learn new things you want, or don’t want, for yourself.
The easy part is thinking about it and writing it down. The part that takes time, hard work, and dedication is actually taking the steps necessary to reach your goal. My best suggestions, tips & tricks, is to:
- Visibility. Put your list somewhere it could serve as a constant reminder that you have a goal you are working towards.
- Management. Don’t overload yourself; doing too much could slow down the process, whereas you could aim your efforts on a few things at a time and get them out of the way fast and on to the next.
- Prioritize. Whether it be the easiest/fastest goal to accomplish or most important, choose a system that works for you. As you check them off it will encourage you to keep going.
- Focus. Having your goals where you can see them will ensure you don’t go off track from your grand plan.
- Motivation. Find the inspiration behind your goal that will keep you going.
An alternative to a list of goals is creating a mood board. A mood board is a similar concept except it is a visual of images, texts, etc., and it doesn’t necessarily include a milestone.
If you don’t accomplish your goal by your milestone, don’t get discouraged. As long as you keep working at it you will get there. Life is full of setbacks, you just have to push back and push through. Always remember that your goals are for you. If you can work for someone else, you can definitely work for yourself.
I will use my goals to challenge and compete with myself. I hope this post was inspiring, helpful, and encourages you to work towards yourself.
A Dose of Denise 