Hey there, goal-getters! If you're like me, goal setting in December is a ritual that brings a sense of inspiration and anticipation for the year ahead. We've all been there, right? We jot down our aspirations, shout them from the rooftops, and get ready to conquer the world. But, inevitably, life happens, and those goals start playing hide-and-seek in the dusty corners of our minds. It's a struggle many of us face: setting goals is easy, staying on the path, not so much. That inspired feeling quickly fades and by February many plans are forgotten and abandoned, a distant memory.

If this happens to you, turns out we're not alone.  According to our trusty friend Google, only about 16% of us manage to keep the goal-setting flame alive and even fewer achieve what we set out to do. So, what's the secret sauce to being part of that elite 3% who actually make it happen? I have been setting goals as long as I remember, I've got dozens of notebooks filled with grand plans, some checked off on track and and many others, abandoned, fallen by the wayside, impacted by challenges and doubtful thoughts.

2023 has been a good year for me. I have accomplished nearly everything in my plan. I have worked my butt off and it shows. Contemplating what worked and didn't work this year, I see how managing my mind has been the game changer. Making decisions ahead of time, developing strategies for overcoming obstacles and taking massive action all require awareness, commitment and determination. So, if you're ready to ditch the cycle of goal-setting amnesia and join the ranks of successful achievers, stick around. In this post, I'm spilling the beans on what it really takes to turn those dreams into reality.

Let's dive in!


How to achieve your goals in 5 simple steps


1. Consider what you want and understand why you want it. The WHY is the very most important thing.
   * Envision what it will feel like to achieve this goal. Why do you think it will feel this way?
   * Consider if this result could change your life or the lives of others and to what degree.
   * Ensure that the WHY is inspiring enough to keep you going when it seems too hard, because it will.

2. Determine what needs to be done to reach your goal, be specific and write it down. 
  * What do I need to do first and what is the sequence of activities?
  * Plan with the end in mind. When does it need to be done?
  * What are the most minor, manageable steps and stages?
  * What depends on what? Be clear and detailed. I'll do this, then this, then this., etc.

3. Get clear on the results, outcomes, or deliverables. Be specific on what is due and when.
  * How will you know you have achieved your goal? It is essential to measure your progress frequently and consistently.
  * Consider the key outcomes and create milestones. Time block it and commit to it.
  * Choose a convenient system that you will use. A journal, checklist, spreadsheet, app, or other tool is fine.
  * Do others need to be aware? Who is affected by a change you have made? How will you communicate?

4. Get it done. Make decisions ahead of time, commit the tasks to your calendar & keep your word to yourself.
  * Plan for these obstacles - what I will do when things come up.
  * Accept that, in the moment, you will not want to do what you planned, and it will be easy to make excuses.
  * Build in queues for daily consistent recommitting – remember your WHY and use it to stay focused.
  * If you miss the goal date, adjust the date rather than give up the goal. Remember your WHY.

5. Celebrate your wins! Do this before moving on to the next thing.
  * Find a way to mark your success. Share your success with a friend, mentor or on social.
  * Take a minute to notice what you have done, be proud of yourself!
  * Write about it in your journal and savour the satisfaction.
  * Acknowledge your work. Do something to mark the victory, revel in it.

And there you have it, my goal-crushing comrades! Setting and achieving goals might not be a walk in the park, but hey, nobody said it would be, right? We're talking about the elusive 3% club, and guess what? You're invited!

So, let's ditch the ordinary, shall we? Average and unfulfilled? Nah, not our style. For me, it's all about evolving into the best version of myself. I want my life to be a canvas painted with purpose, creativity, and a sacred offering— a unique melody only I can compose.  And here's the million-dollar question for you: What masterpiece do you want to create? Remember, jot it down and make it SMART. Your goals are your compass; let them guide you to a life that's not just good enough but exceptional.

Now, my fellow architects of destiny, go out there and build the life you've always envisioned. Your future self will thank you.