Stanley Judd said, “A good plan is like a road map: it shows the final destination and usually the best way to get there.” In the same way, it is essential to identify your goal before you can move forward. After all, you want to minimize any wrong turns or traffic delays during a goal-setting journey just as you do a road trip! Here are a few tips for effective goal-setting.

1. Do your homework. If you are serious about setting goals, you should first do research on SMART goals. SMART is an acronym for five important components to crafting an effective goal. SMART goals are ones that are Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant and Time-based. Read more here:  https://www.mindtools.com/pages/article/smart-goals.htm

2. Document your goals. Once you have your SMART goal, you can choose what method works best for you to document it (on paper, in a journal, online, etc.). The method doesn’t matter so long as your goal is visible and not tucked away in a drawer. Seeing your goal regularly helps you keep it front of mind.

3. Develop both long-term and short-term goals. Many of us set lofty goals and then grow frustrated when we don’t achieve them in a short amount of time. Let’s face it, we’re used to instant gratification in today’s tech-heavy world. To help offset this frustration, consider breaking a large goal into smaller mini goals. This will allow you to more easily see success along the way, and therefore, keep striving toward that final destination!

4. Regularly assess your goal progress. It is important to check in with your goal on a regular basis to stay focused. Mark your calendar now! You can choose weekly, monthly or quarterly check-in’s depending upon your preference and schedule.

5. Ask for help. It often takes a village to accomplish a goal! Take a step back to identify resources that would help you succeed in this endeavor. Then, take the next step, and approach those people who can lend a hand.

6. Say good-bye to your goal when necessary. In today’s fast-paced, ever-changing world, a goal can lose its relevance quickly. Don’t be afraid to say good-bye to a goal if it no longer makes sense. Turn your attention and energy toward something more beneficial.

The next time you decide to set a goal, pause for a moment and make sure you know where you want to go. Remember that most of us wouldn’t leave on a road trip without knowing our final destination! Use the SMART acronym and these tips to help get you where you want to be on the road of life.