Goal Setting Part 2

“Great things are not something accidental, but must certainly be willed.” – Vincent von Gogh

 In the process of setting goals many people get stuck trying to figure out what it is they want in life.  In the end they will either set far too many goals or few very weak goals.  Success-Minded People need to understand that nothing will happen if you do not know first what it is you are looking for.  The late author and speaker Earl Nightingale said, “People with goals succeed because they know where they’re going.”

I would like to help you clarify your goals by breaking them down into workable pieces.  There are six areas that we will work at setting goals in.  Here is what you need to do to make this work for you:  Have a note book or on your computer write these all down.  Never set a goal that is not in writing.  Second, do not set more than three goals in each of the six areas.  You will always be adding new goals when one is achieved so you do not have to place them all under the group now.  Too many goals will cause us to be overwhelmed and unproductive.

AREAS FOR GOALS

1.  Personal Goals:  These are goals that you want to accomplish for yourself.  Things like education, learning a language, books you wish to read, planting a garden, working on the house, hobbies and any other area of interest.  “Find something you’re really interested in doing in your life.  Pursue it, set goals, and commit yourself to excellence.  Do the best you can.” – Chris Evert
2. Career Goals:  These concern your work and career choice.  What do you plan to do in your working life?  Look at job changes, promotions, writing a book, pursuing a new business or career opportunity.  This can also include volunteer services, church work or missions.  “The biggest mistake you can make is to believe that you are working for somebody else.  Job security is gone.  The driving force of a career must come from the individual.  Remember: Jobs are owned by the company, you own your career.” – Earl Nightingale
3. Financial Goals:  What do you want for an income?  These are goals for planning a pay raise, paying off debt, extra income, savings and giving.  “All wealth is the product of labor.” – John Locke
4. Spiritual Goals:  These will focus on your relationship with God and service to His people.  Look at Bible studies and devotional time, church attendance, serving in the church or in missions.  “Let it be your business every day, in the secrecy of the inner chamber, to meet the Holy God.  You will be repaid for the trouble it may cost you.  The reward is sure and rich.” – Andrew Murray
5. Family Goals:  These will focus on your family and close relationships.  How would they improve?  What do you want in time, family projects, and teaching, opportunities, romance and family vacations?  “A man should never neglect his family for business.” – Walt Disney
6. Fun Goals:  These are also important.  You have to have fun to enjoy success.  Think about what trips you want to take, vacations, new projects just for fun.  “It is requisite for the relaxation of the mind that we make use from time to time of playful deeds and jokes.” – Thomas Aquinas

 © 2011 John Patrick Hickey