Are you using a worksheet to set goals? There are many different versions of such worksheets, but the sheer number of ideas can be challenging. Not all worksheets are right for everyone.
It helps if you know how you plan to use them, because once you know that, you’ll also know which ones are best for you, and even how to make your own. So read on to discover the key ways to use them.
They are a great resource for every part of the goal setting process, from discovering your core values to mapping your goals to creating the individual action steps. So here are the five key ways to use such a worksheet as you move through the goal-setting process:
1) Determine your core values
Write down your core values, and then narrow them down by crossing off the ones that are somewhat negotiable, until you’re down to the five core values you can’t live without. Then put them in order from 1 to 5.
2) Match your values with your goals
Find out what you want, and then check to see if the goals of your intent are aligned with your core values. If they aren’t, try another goal or find ways to make the goal better align with your core values. Make sure to be honest here. Do not fool yourself.
3) Make your goals seductive
Write down the things you will enjoy when you have achieved your goals. Think about them in great detail, in sensory terms, one at a time. Make each of them come to life. Taste it, smell it and imagine what will fall to have what you are looking for. You can even add a checklist to create reminder note cards that you can take with you wherever you go.
4) Tailor your goals
Big, bold goals can be motivating, but they can also be very intimidating. Don’t let that stop you. Use your goal setting worksheets to cut your big goals down to size.
What does that mean? It means that you create specific action steps for each of them. Remember that famous Chinese quote about the 1,000-mile road that begins with the first step? That is what you should aspire to. Write a first step for each of your goals. Then another. Then another. Write as many as you can think of, but don’t stress if you can’t think of more than one or two. The third step will become obvious once you have completed steps one and two.
5) Schedule your first steps
On the last goal setting worksheet, you should schedule your action steps. In fact, make it a checklist where you can cross off the steps you’ve taken. And while it’s not a worksheet, don’t ignore your calendar. Whether you use a PDA or an old-fashioned Week-at-a-Glance calendar, schedule your steps and you’ll be on your way.
