Setting SMART/SMARTER goals is crucial for turning your dreams into reality. Each goal should be Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Time-based. Additionally, evaluate and readjust your goals as needed. Before taking the next step, ask yourself important questions about your dream, such as what you want to achieve, who you want to become, where your dream is taking you, and how you will achieve it. Being specific with your steps gives you direction, focus, and a strategic plan. Quantify your goals, be realistic about what you can achieve, and be open to adjusting your plan when necessary.
Process Goals
Focus on process goals, which are the smaller steps you take each day to achieve your bigger goals. These goals revolve around creating habits and taking intentional actions that support your ultimate purpose. For example, if your dream is to have better grades, you can create habits like spending more time studying or staying ahead in your coursework. If your dream is to become a millionaire, develop habits that focus on money management, budgeting, networking, and creating business opportunities.
Performance Goals
Performance goals are short-term objectives or expectations that act as milestones towards your bigger outcome. These goals are based on personal standards and the effort you put into the process. They help you improve and build the necessary skills to achieve your dream. Examples of performance goals include achieving high grades, finishing a marathon, generating profit from sales, or maintaining a healthy diet. By focusing on improving your performance, you increase your chances of reaching your dream.
Outcome Goals
Outcome goals represent the big picture and are the ultimate achievement you desire. While they are not directly under your control, the decisions and actions you take in the process and performance goals determine the outcome. Outcome goals can be landing a job after graduation, earning a promotion, winning a championship, or achieving other significant milestones. Initially, these goals may seem impossible, but with persistence and resilience, they become inevitable as you take the necessary steps towards your dream.
Remember, your dreams may start as distant and seemingly impossible, but by breaking them down into achievable goals and taking one step at a time, you can turn them into a reality. Embrace the process, celebrate your progress, and remain committed to your dreams. Let your goals serve as the stepping stones that lead you to live the life you've always envisioned.
