How to Set Goals For a Better Future by Helen Atkinson

We all need a purpose and sense of direction in life. This is why setting goals is so important to our success. Unfortunately, most people don't bother and just leave everything to chance. They may think they won't reach their goals, so fear prevents them going any further. Or, they don't know how to set goals.
Before you set any goals for yourself, it is really important that you know what you want from life. Otherwise it is really difficult to get anywhere. The opportunity to become successful passes us by from time to time. But you must know what you want in order to seize a good opportunity when it comes your way. In order to know where you are going in life, a detailed plan of action is needed.
The first thing you need to do is write down everything that you want to achieve. This is not particularly easy but it should be fun and exciting. At this stage, don't even think about how you are going to acquire all the things you want so much, even if they do seem impossible right now. It doesn't matter whether it is small things you want or more ambitious adventures. Write a list of all the things you want to do, have or own. You may want to lose weight, get a degree, learn to drive, buy a house, start a business, write a book, travel to India, spend more time with your children or learn a foreign language. The list is endless. Always keep in mind your ultimate goal of where you want to be eventually.
When you have finished brainstorming, devise everything you want into different categories. This may include health and fitness, relationships, career, financial, family, social and learning goals. Write these headings on a separate piece of paper and write down all your goals under the appropriate categories.
Choose no more than five of your most important and exciting goals from each category. You will realize that some of the goals on your list could be achieved soon. Perhaps next week or in a month's time. Other things you want will take several months or even years. Now do three different lists: Firstly, your short-term goals that are to be achieved in six months. Medium-term goals within one year and long-term goals for where you aim to be in five or ten years time, maybe even longer. Put realistic time limits next to your chosen goals for when you hope to attain them.
For large goals, write out a separate list of all the smaller steps that you need to take to attain them. Make realistic goals, but do be ambitious. Ensure all your desires are what you want to achieve and not what somebody else wants. As you achieve each goal you will gain more confidence to go onto the next one.
Believe in yourself, stay positive and don't give up. By setting meaningful goals you are well on your way to changing your life for the better. Make a commitment today towards a better future.