Common Mistakes when Setting Goals
Setting goals is a basic step for achievement. Without goals it is all too easy to stay put on the same level, without making any progress. As most people know, it is very difficult to just stand still in life, whatever field you are talking about. More likely you will regress. This is why goal setting is so important. What are some common mistakes you would want to avoid when setting goals?
Setting the goal too high
Some people set the immediate goal too high, making it more or less impossible to achieve. Disappointment is not conducive to progress, so it is usually better to set the goal at a reasonable, reachable level. You might want to have a long-term goal which is quite high, maybe becoming a manager, but make sure there are smaller, intermediary goals. One step at a time will make it easier to go forward.
Setting the goal too low
This might sound strange, but if the goal is too easy to reach, you will not use your abilities to the full. A sense of underachievement can make you lazy or discontented. A goal should be within reach, but you also should have to work a little to reach it. Any employer will appreciate a worker who is hard working and determined.
Not considering the global business strategy
No company is alone, everything is part of theglobal economy. When setting your goals for your business, keep in mind the overall strategy and economy. Do research on what is happening in the world, and more specifically in your area.
Getting distracted
There are a number of reasons why you will not be able to fulfill your goals. Make sure you do not get distracted or come up with excuses. Stick to your goals. If you have put them in writing, it is easier to tick them off one by one, in this way seeing your progress. If you are running a company, put them up where everybody in the work place can see them - this will encourage you all to keep working towards them. When setting a goal, think about the excuses you might come up with for not working toward it, then try to eliminate these excuses already with your goal-setting.
Not setting specific goals
This is much related to the previous point, but involves more than avoiding falling for excuses. Having specific goals will help you target your time and efforts, until the goal is reached. If you do not set specific goals, it is easy to think you have reached your goal even when you are only half-way. Using your potentials to the full in reachingspecific goalswill give you a sense of power and achievement, helping you to set more goals - and reaching also those.
Setting goals is an important part of life, especially in your professional career. By avoiding these common mistakes you are more likely to reach your goals, which is a fantastic feeling, as well as being useful.
