Goal setting is a very personal process, and there are many different ways to do it. The trick is finding the method and the tools that work for you and embracing them.
There are a lot of different perspectives on goal setting, which is great because that means there is always something new to learn. As we lean into 2012, I thought it might be useful to share a list of goal-setting resources — including a number of different perspectives, techniques and tools — to kick off your own goal setting process.
Happy New Year!
1. Getting Started with Goal Setting – Starting at the very beginning, the tips in this article will help you get started with goal setting for your business, focus on the specifics of what you hope to accomplish, and start to put your plan into action.
2. Planning for the Champagne Moment - Looking for a quick and dirty goal setting process? Simon tells us that setting goals can be as simple and crafting a sentence, clearly explaining what we want to accomplish.
3. SMART Goal Setting 101 – The SMART formula is a popular way to take general goals and whittle them down into realistic and measurable targets. This article includes links to an introduction, a SMART goal setting worksheet and examples.
4. 30-Minute Goal Setting - Tight on time? Don’t let that be an excuse for skipping goals. Here is a process for getting started with goal setting that you should be able to fit into even the craziest schedule.
5. Backward Goal Setting – When you are overwhelmed by the idea of setting goals, it can be helpful to start at the end and work backwards. This articles walks you through the process of creating realistic goals that are broken down into single actions you can focus on one at a time.
6. 3 Ways to Kick Goal Setting Into High Gear - Finding time for goal setting is a challenge for many of us, but there are things you can try to set goals on a time budget. Here are three ideas.
7. Do You Have a Baseline? - Having a baseline can help you stay on track, meet expectations, avoid feelings of overwhelm, and build forward-moving momentum. And it can be a powerful tool in any goal setting process.
8. Goal Setting and Tracking Software – This list of goal setting and tracking software will help you create, track and achieve your most important business goals. Here is another list of goal setting apps for iPhones and iPads, too.
9. 5 New Year’s Resolutions for Your Business – Not sure where to start when it comes to setting targets for 2012? Here are a few ideas that might get you inspired.
10. The Best Goal Is No Goal – I promised I would include a number of different perspectives and techniques for goal setting, so what about not setting any goals at all? Check out this article to see what a no-goal approach would look like.
What is your favorite goal setting technique? What tools do you use to stay on track after you set your goals?
Great advice on goal setting.
You may also want to check out and download a free ebook on goal setting called “Goals! How to Get Everything You Want – Faster Than You Ever Thought Possible” at http://www.goalsontrack.com/index/goals_ebook
I admit that I’ve run the gamut of goal-setting approaches. Most years, I’ve been successful, but have felt no motivation to get started on new goals for 2012. Thanks for sharing some ideas to consider; perhaps I will find the one that fits my needs for this year.
Been there, Zan. Best part about goal setting, though, is that you can start any time. Any day can be your Jan 1!
Very nice list, and yes, different perspectives. I picked a few to read, as I enjoy setting goals in my business plan, or to reach certain things in my life. But enjoy themes “overall”.
Here’s one about themes.
http://www.marketingwithintegrity.com/?p=6
Love, love, love the idea of personal themes, Maria! Great addition to the list. I will now be incorporating themes into my own 2012 planning. Thanks for sharing!
Glad to be of service.
Hi Alyssa,
I am actually commenting on article you wrote in 2009 called: “How to Write an Attention-Grabbing Professional Bio” it is AWESOME!!! Thank you so much for the article it has helped me GREATLY!!! (just thought I’ll let you know)
thanks,
Chris
Hi Chris. Glad the bio post was helpful for you. I hope this blog will also provide some useful and relevant content that you can use!