The past year just ended and for some people, it is time to make resolutions and promises for the New Year. It is also the time to set goals or targets for the New Year, be it Personal, Career Oriented, Business or Financial goals. I have compiled a few tips to help set achievable goals.
To set goals, you have to ask these questions:
(a)What do you really want to achieve?
(b)What do you need to do to achieve them?
As you answer these questions, your goals begin to shape itself out.

1.Decide what you want to achieve
You need to take time out to figure out what you want for yourself; not what others want for you. It might take a while for you to decide on this; try not to rush yourself because this is the basis of everything. When your goals are personally meaningful, you are more likely to achieve them.
2.Set SMART Goals
SMART stands for
S – SPECIFIC
M – MEASURABLE
A – ATTAINABLE
R – REALISTIC
T – TIME-BOUND
(a)You need to be specific when setting your goals. For instance, if you want to lose weight, you need to be specific about how you plan to reach the target. Instead of ‘Lose weight’ which is a general goal, your specific goal should be; Exercise 3 times a week, Eat two servings of fruit and vegetables a day, etc.
(b)Measurable goals give you a sense of completion. You should be able to measure your goals; you have to establish precise criteria to measure your set goals.
(c)Your goals should not be impossible to accomplish; you have to set achievable goals.
(d)Your goals have to be reasonable and relevant.
(e)You need a time frame or deadline to achieve your set goal as this will help eliminate procrastination. While setting a timeline, remember that some goals take longer to reach than others, so set your schedule accordingly.
3.Write your Goals down
Don’t just think of your goals, get a pen and paper (or book) and write them down. Studies have shown that people who write down their goals are more likely to achieve them.
Ensure you keep your list close by so you can frequently reference them as this will help you remain motivated.
4.Tell someone about your Goals
Talk to your partner or best friend about your goals, this way they can encourage you along the way. You do not need to tell too many people your plans, 1 or 2 people is good.
I wish you the best in your goal setting, and I hope at the end of the year you would have achieved them all.