Realistic Goals - Keep It Real And Succeed

Realistic goals are what we need. We can dream of flying jumbo jets, driving Bugatti Veyrons, walking on Mars, travelling at the speed of light, having a billion dollars in the bank, or other such unreachable objectives . Those aims are just completely out of sight - and we can have a perfectly enjoyable life without them anyway.

But reality must play a part in our life. We can daydream all we want but life is here to stay and up front and personal. We need to tackle it as such. Sure expand your horizons (greatly if you want), tackle huge personal projects, and so on.

Goal setting made real

Realism and goal setting - realistic goals - is another natural step in the SMART setting goal process. With being realistic we are now focusing on how we can make the goal come true in our life.

If we are uncertain about the specifics of our goal, or our means of measuring progress, or our means of achieving or attaining our target where will this leave us? The fact that our aim is real and meaningful for us, but with the other stepping stones in disarray - how can we hope to get to our prize? Or know that our prize is what we really want to obtain?

The SMART process

SMART is a really useful process by which we can clarify our aim and ensure that it is not only what we want but that we can achieve it and within a realistic time frame. Setting realistic goals is step four in this process.

SMART stands for

1. Specific
2. Measurable
3. Attainable
4. Realistic
5. Timely

follow the links to find out more about this approach to goal setting and how it can change your life.

Are we being realistic?

So what does it really mean to be realistic? The following will help to clarify what we mean by realistic goals

• a down to earth approach is beneficial
• a genuine outlook will help no end
• being matter of fact can be helpful provided we don't move too far away from the 'I really want this' stance
• we should have a practical approach to our 'problem'
• being rational and not either emotional or excitable (in the wrong way) will help us keep our feet on the ground
• should we be reasonable? Should we not? A decision we need to decide for ourselves - with one eye on the possible repercussions
• is our goal representative of what we really want and the direction in which our life is going?
• are we being sensible - or know when we should not?
• is our target sound in the grand order of things?
• is our attempt at success really a viable option given other factors in our life?

(will this help us as human beings and help contribute something to the greater good?)

How would we know we are being realistic in our approach?

How do we know we are 'chasing' realistic goals?

• do we have the knowledge and experience to surmount the hurdles between us and our goal?
• or would knowing more help your course?
• and if so how should you obtain this information?
• yet we should realize our true capabilities
• we need to understand the strengths that we have
• we should use the talents in our arsenal
• we should live by our value system and let this help direct our actions in life

And other attributes . . .

• are we willing to put the effort in?
• are we able to put the effort in? - and time might be a factor here as well as our all round abilities
• will we be able to reach the heights we have set ourselves ? - only we may know or only we are willing to give it a try - but we may surprise o ursel ves
• are we making each goal stretch us that little bit more? - so that progress and growth can happen in us and in our life ?
• setting too low a target may actually demotivate us , whereas a high or challenging aim may actually energize us into action and greater achievement
• we need to find in our goal, particularly if it is your goal, but donated to you by another, something that motivates and excites YOU - then you will have be able to have a real good attempt (and more) at bringing the prize home (remember that a labor of love is one of the highest and most rewarding ventures that you can attempt)
• and your goal must also be relevant to you, your life and the world around you - to get the most out of yourself and life

and you need belief in yourself and your goal.

So there is a lot to consider but give yourself the time and the space to do so. Don't crowd yourself in, neither beat yourself up - they will not help. You may need to give yourself the time to grow and develop first (which can be a realistic goal in itself) before marching onto the real and longer term goal you have set yourself.

The precursors

What needs to be in place for your goal to be achieved? What are the essentials?

• you need confidence in yourself
• you need motivation to achieve
• you need your talents and strengths and to use them wisely and productively
• you need discipline and control
• you may need growth and development
• you need to behave responsibly
• you may need to exert your personality
• your self esteem and self image need to be in good shape
• you need to abide by your core values and principles

As a by-product what will achieving your target, goal or aim do for you or your life (or for others)? What might these be? What will your realistic goals bring you? Anyone or more of the following (or a similar list you might prepare yourself) might do - if it is real for you.

• satisfaction
• enjoyment
• fulfillment
• happiness
• growth
• raised feeling of well being
• sense of real harmony in your life
• more comfortable within yourself
• greater belief and confidence in yourself

Just keep it real

Realistic goals can make a real difference in your life. Keep one foot on the ground - we don't have wings - but dream by all means. Realize you can be more today than you were yesterday . See an 'improved' you and put the effort in and what in life can stop you from achieving the targets you set yourself ?

And really having the life you have always dreamed about. Put one building block in place at a time and be amazed at what you can achieve.

Go for it , keep it real - what have you to lose?

AND we can look at our SMART aims and think - yes!

1. Specific
2. Measurable
3. Attainable
4. Realistic
5. Timely

follow the links to find out more about this approach to goal setting and how it can change your life.