Every business owner and entrepreneur should understand the vital role that goal setting plays in the growth of the company. Establishing a goal is the first step to achieving it, but some people have a tough time identifying the path to transforming their vision into reality. With the proper guidance and steps, goal setting can be less frightening and more thrilling.
- Identify Your Goals
Sometimes pinpointing the direction you’d like to take and how you would get there is the most difficult aspect of goal setting. But once you’ve identified a clear vision, it can make the planning process a lot easier rather than figuring things out as you go along. Take the time to collect your ideas and ensure that your vision remains in line with the foundation of your company.
- Write Everything Down
Writing down a goal makes it more tangible and gives you a sense of accountability. It’s difficult to organize your plans when they are stuck in your head. When they are laid out on paper, it is easier to clarify what you want to adjust and what you need to let go of. Keeping a log of your progress also motivates you to keep going and realize that there really is a light at the end of the tunnel.
- Get the Ball Rolling
A common mistake made when people set goals is putting it off for the perfect time. When you’re serious about achieving a goal the perfect time is always right away. Don’t allow lack of resources or feeling overwhelmed to stop you from acting on your business goals. Even a small step like creating an action plan can keep the goal alive and get you closer to your vision.
- Set Short Term Goals
Whether you see the goal as big or small, it is essential to outline the stages it will take to reach the finish line. Create specific short-term goals that will lead up to your end goal and track your mini accomplishments. Be sure to set deadlines for these small goals to help keep you focused and efficient. Don’t forget to celebrate each victory and use it as motivation as you maneuver through your action plan.
- Make it Realistic
Give yourself enough time; creating unrealistic goals will leave you feeling discouraged and overwhelmed. This will make the process frustrating and you may end up aborting your plans. Patience is an important component in building up to your goal. Save yourself the stress and focus on attaining your goal, rather than how long it takes to attain it.
- Share Your Goal
Telling an executive coach or a group of trusted employees about your goal could be beneficial to the outcome. It holds you even more accountable and adds motivation to finish what you started. They have a fresh perspective on the details of your goal so another source can help you with brainstorming or reframing your ideas.
- Don’t be Defeated by Obstacles
No one ever said achieving your goal was going to be an easy process. There may be a few kinks to work out, but don’t allow that to discourage your progress. Use the small failures to improve your plans and don’t stop until your vision for the company has become reality.
It’s time to get the ball rolling. Seeking the help of a FocalPoint Business Coach is one of the first steps to achieving your goals in your targeted timeframe. With over three decades of experience, I’ve partnered with CEOs and business owners to map out effective strategies for growth and success.
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About the Author
With more than three decades of experience in all facets of sales management, customer service, business growth, and staff coordination, Certified Business Coach Greg Emslie is a focused professional with the tools to help you grow and manage your business effectively.
Driven by his ability to implement proven business concepts and help improve teams, Greg affects all areas of the companies he works with, including sales, leadership, profitability, and decision-making. He focuses on improving efficiency and processes for his clients while helping them grow their revenue base.
Ready to begin finding other ways to make your company more productive? Let’s get the conversation started. Contact Greg Emslie for a business strategy discussion today!