Ten Action Steps Toward Your Goals

by Denis Waitley

1.Set short-range goals that build toward your long-range purpose. It is much more effective to establish goals for the month, six months, or one year, than to project too far into the future. Specific time limits are important measuring devices.

2.Set goals that are just out of reach, but not out of sight. It is critically important to use an incremental approach to success. By setting lower level goals—ones that are relatively easy to accomplish—it is easier to make corrections when you get off target. The achievement of step-by-step goals also builds your confidence.

3.Get your group enforcement by surrounding yourself with motivated individuals interested in the same achievement. Also, review your goals with experts. Get counsel from people with proven track records of success.

4.Establish a reward or ceremony in advance, so that you will have something specific to celebrate upon the accomplishment of each of your goals. It may be a trip, a family dinner, some special recreation, new clothing, or personal item.

5.Try a different kind of New Year's celebration. Put your goals for this year in an envelope. Encourage your family members to do the same. On New Year's Eve or New Year's Day, open the envelopes and see how well you did in accomplishing what you set out to do. It is a fantastic way to end another great year. Then set your goals for the new year (before all the postseason football games dominate your attention).

6.Use a desktop or briefcase calendar to set your goals for the next month. What will you do, where will you go, and with whom will you communicate?

7.Use a pocket, week-at-a-glance calendar to set your activities for the next week that will take you step-by-step toward your monthly and annual goals.

8.Use an 8-1/2 x 11 lined folio pad to set the most important goals of all—your daily priorities. At the close of each day set your priorities for tomorrow. Review your list at the beginning of each new day, before you make your first call or appointment. Check off each item as it is accomplished and carry over those priorities not completed into the following day's agenda.

9.Don't share your goals with negative people or cynics. Share your goals with people who really care about you and want to help you. And make certain you take the advice of winners. Remember, misery loves company. Some people would just as soon you stayed in the same rut along with them!

10.Don't depend upon the government for your long-range financial security. Pay yourself each month, by putting a sum of money in a savings account for your future, as if you were paying your house payment. You are your best Social Security.

Adapted from Seeds of Greatness © 1983 by Denis Waitley