Achieving Goals...

[chochiyo_sama]

Got this information from "Spark People." (Of course, I have pared it down to the essential elements).

I thought I'd put it here, so I wouldn't lose it. I'm trying to eliminate the paper in my life. There seems to be a lot of it. WAAAaaaaay too much, in fact.

Setting goals is the easy part. Using the right strategies helps you achieve them.

Create a Plan
Know where you are going, what resources you will need, who can help, and what Plan B is when Plan A doesn't work.

Start Small
Don't focus on too many things at once.  Use a small goal that you know you can do each day for the next two weeks.  Build that first habit to boost your confidence and pick up speed.

Write It Down
The act of writing down your goal is powerful enough to keep you committed and focused.  Find a visual that represents your goal or how your life will be different.  Seeing it makes it seem more possible.

Be Specific
Deal in measurable things that you have control over.  Never say "never" or "always"--all or nothing is a common attitude that leads people back to bad habits.

Leave Room for Failure
Persistence is the key.  Accept the fact that you might not make it on the first try.  

Track Your Progress
Memory can be selective.  Track your goals with a checklist or journal.

Reward Your Success
Don't beat yourself up over failure.  Focus on what you're doing right.  If you take a step back, learn from it and take two steps forward.

Find a Support System
Adding to your support group doubles your motivation, energy, commitment, and FUN.

Finally:  Don't ever forget--YOU CAN DO IT.