How to Put More "GO" Into Your Goal Setting

Can you believe that 2013 is right around the corner?

            As a writer, where will it find you?

A). Celebrating an array of accomplishments from 2012 and optimistic about the future

B). Stuck---Lamenting over how little you got done and suffering from the “should-haves-would-haves”

                             OR

C). Happy with your progress, yet not where you want to be...

What dreams do you envision next year?

  Next month even?

Whether you aspire to write that steamy love novel, win a prestigious literary award, or operate a full-time freelance business, establishing goals should be a part of your game plan.

Here’s why:

• Goals serve like a road map to help navigate your direction and have fewer detours on the road to success—if you don’t know where you’re going, how will you get there?

• Goals keep us mindful and accountable. Without them, often times we’re just “winging it,” which causes us to work harder, not smarter.

• Goals help us to stay focused amid the daily demands and “distractions” of life.

• Goals, once achieved, give us a greater sense of accomplishment and empowerment. And there’s great truth to the adage, “Success breeds success”.

Now that you know the “Why,” here's the 4-1-1 on “How” to achieve more through goal setting:

1. Buy a pretty journal from your local Dollar Store or stationery shop. Or create a spreadsheet on your computer. There's really no right or wrong approach here; do what works best for you.

2. Brainstorm.

3. Make a list and check it twice. Don’t worry about how grandiose or ridiculous it may appear on paper. It’s okay to dream big, until the universe tells you otherwise. :-)

4. Divide your aspirations into short term and long term goals. For example, my short term goal would be to expand my client base for next year. My long term goal is to produce a book on relationships or creative writing. I'd say a short term goal would be anything that can be executed within six months or less.

5. Identify (and address) any needed resources or obstacles to achieving your goals.

6. Establish a deadline. Studies show that you’re three times more likely to achieve your goals if they’re written down, with a designated deadline.

7. Revisit your goals periodically--whether it's once a month or once a quarter, (to assess status). And stay encouraged!

8. Allow for flexibility. Things happen. According to Moira Allen, author and Writing World editor, "The most delightful thing about goals is that you can change them. They're not graven in stone."

With this in mind, why not start setting your goals today, for a better writing future?

 Recommended Resource:
The Magic Lamp: Goal setting for people who hate setting goals-By Keith Ellis
Order it at Amazon.com.


How about you?
Do you set goals for your writing career each year?
In the words of Dr. Phil, "How's that workin' out for ya'?" Do share.


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