Landmark attainment to goal results

Set your sights on success

The first step is to choose and define your goal. Make it measurable. A goal may not be just to get fit, but to work out X times per week. Make it an appropriate and manageable goal.

Be a project planner for your goal. List the components and tasks. Break it into subtasks and set them on a calendar timeline. Is your goal going to be a six-month process or something you can achieve in six days?

Build self-care initiatives

How does the prospect of working towards your goal make you feel? Are you anxious, excited, confident or overwhelmed? For example, my goal is to write a novel. If I were feeling stuck, one thing I would add to my timeline would be a free writing session. Dr. Carmichael used the example of getting into graduate school, and says if you're feeling judged, have a friend read a draft of your application essay. If you're feeling excited, plan a party to celebrate the completion of your goal.

Value your goal—you deserve this

Once you set your goal and decide you’ll pursue it, spend time on it. This will free you to put your back into the goal. I admit it—I can be a procrastinator when it comes to my personal goals. Set a timeline and find ways to address obstacles gives the goal credence, importance and priority.

Cross the finish line!

See your timeline to the finish line. Consider having an accountability buddy, plan rewards at certain milestones, and post your timeline so that it’s always visible and top of mind. Before you know it, you'll have run that marathon, written that book, or started your own business.

Do you have trouble seeing your goals to the finish line? What is one of your goals and what steps have you taken to attain it?