As we embark on a new year, it's the perfect time to evaluate where you are in your goal-setting journey and realign with the direction you want to take. Let’s dive into strategies and frameworks that will not only help you set meaningful goals but also ensure you stay on track to achieve them.
Start with a 30/60/90 Day Plan
Breaking your goals into manageable time-based sections is one of the most effective ways to track and achieve progress. Outline what you will accomplish within 30, 60, and 90 days. This approach allows you to review quarterly and make adjustments as needed, increasing the likelihood of achieving and excelling in your goals.
Surround Yourself with Accountability
Accountability is a game-changer. Whether it’s an individual, a group, or a structured system, having accountability ensures you remain focused and motivated. I’ve personally benefited from my accountability group, the "Powerpreneurs." Each member brings a unique strength or “superpower,” and together, we navigate challenges and celebrate wins. Who will keep you accountable this year?
Embrace Assessment and Pivoting
It’s okay to reassess and even pivot when your goals no longer align with your purpose or current circumstances. Growth often means being flexible enough to recognize when a goal needs to be adjusted—or even replaced.
The SMAART Goal Framework: Your Roadmap to Achievement
You’ve probably heard of SMART goals, but I like to take it a step further with an additional “A” for Accountability. Here’s how to structure your goals using the SMAART framework:
1. Specific
Clearly define your goal. The more precise you are, the easier it becomes to achieve. Ask yourself:
Who is involved?
What do I want to accomplish?
When will I achieve it?
Where will it take place?
Why is this goal important?
2. Measurable
Create metrics to track your progress. By breaking larger goals into smaller, quantifiable milestones, you’ll stay motivated and focused. Questions to consider:
How will I measure success?
What indicators will show I’m on track?
3. Attainable
Set goals that stretch your abilities but remain achievable. Unrealistic goals can lead to frustration, while realistic ones empower you to grow and succeed.
4. Accountable
Accountability is key to achieving any goal. Recognize and celebrate your wins, and if you fall short, be honest with yourself. Identify barriers and make adjustments.
5. Realistic
Ensure your goals are grounded in practicality. Be honest about your capacity, resources, and willingness to put in the effort.
6. Timely
Every goal needs a deadline. Without one, it’s easy for goals to become endless projects. Assign a timeline, and if needed, break the goal into smaller, time-bound sections to maintain momentum.
Moving Forward with Confidence
Goal-setting is more than just creating a list of things to accomplish. It’s about being intentional, accountable, and flexible enough to adjust as life evolves. Using the SMAART framework, combined with strategies like 30/60/90 day planning and accountability, will set you up for success in 2025 and beyond.
Remember, goal-setting is not just about the destination—it’s about the journey. Celebrate the small wins, learn from setbacks, and stay committed to your vision. Here's to making 2025 your most accomplished year yet!
Denola M. Burton is the Founder and CEO of Enhanced DNA: Develop Nurture Achieve, LLC and Enhanced DNA Publishing. Through Enhanced DNA, Denola develops and nurtures individuals and organizations to achieve their Leadership, Communication and Performance goals and objectives. Denola is also an author and publisher and through Enhanced DNA Publishing, assists new and newer authors in publishing their books according to the standards of the Independent Book Publisher's Association (IBPA). Denola retired from Eli Lilly and Company after 27 years where the majority of her career was focused on Employee Relations/Human Resources. Interested in becoming an author? Check out Denola's award-winning books, Enhancing Your Author DNA: Step-by-Step Publishing Guide and Enhancing Your Leadership, Communication and Performance DNA.
You can connect with Denola on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIN Enhanced DNA or send a message to DenolaBurton@EnhancedDNA1.com.
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