When you set them, make sure your goals are SMART:

S for Specific
Make sure you say PRECISELY what you want: “making more money” is too fuzzy. Where is the money coming from specifically? “exercising” is too vague, what type of exercise, and where?

M for Measured
“Going to the gym” is not good enough, “going to the gym 4 times a week for a 2 hours workout each time” is much better. “Making more money” won’t work, making $xxx” will.

A for “As If Now“
Write your goals in the present tense: “I am making $xxx”. “I go to the gym…”

R for Realistic and Responsible
If the last violin class you took was 35 years ago, it may not be realistic to set as a goal: “successfully auditioning for the London Symphony Orchestra” (well you get the idea). Responsible means that it’s good for you and for your family and your environment as well.

T for Timed
Give a date. “The end of July” is not a date (when is the end of July?). “July 31st, 2010″ is a date!

Write your goals on a paper or in a file in your computer, read through to make sure they are SMART.

Then, go through the keys to achievable outcomes:

1. Stated in the positive. “What specifically do you want?”

2. Specify present situation. “Where are you now?” (Associated)

3. Specify outcome. “What will you see, hear, feel, etc., when you have it?”

4. Specify evidence procedure. “How will you know when you have it?”

5. Is it congruently desirable?“What will this outcome get for you or allow you to do?”

6. Is it self-initiated and self-maintained? “Is it only for you?” (you cannot set goals for others).

7. Is it appropriately contextualized? “Where, when, how, and with whom do you want it?”

8. What resources are needed?
“What do you have now, and what do you need to get your outcome?”
“Have you ever had or done this before?”
“Do you know anyone who has?”
“Can you act as if you have it?”

9. Is it ecological?
“For what purpose do you want this?”
“What will you gain or lose if you have it?”

Happy Holidays!

PS: Want to know more? Visit the public area of the MasterMinds NLP Tutorials website, where we post some useful tips and “how to” step-by-step guide to lead a more effective and fulfilling life.

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