General tips for writing positive working goals you can achieve.
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Start from the positive. Many self-improvement programs start by
identifying weaknesses or deficiencies. In this program, we want you to begin
by recognizing the positive qualities and achievements identified in your
self-assessment. Acknowledging your strengths stops you from focusing on
failure. When you know that you are already making positive steps, you find
energy and enthusiasm for further change. So start with the evidence that you can
make changes for the better.
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Establish "working goals." You set this type of goal knowing that it
will change. Then, if you don't achieve the goal exactly as it is stated, you
don't see it as a failure, but a need to modify the goal. Each goal provides an
opportunity to learn how to move forward. With working goals, you learn how to practice
self-compassion, so you don't blame yourself for "failures," get
discouraged, or stop moving forward.
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Make sure
your goals are harmonious. If you are setting multiple goals, you have a
higher chance of success if they are integrated with one another to serve a
broader purpose. For example, you're more likely to achieve your goal of
traveling internationally if you also aim to save money. Goals that conflict
with one another will frustrate you and cause stress.
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Create
approach-oriented goals. Science says that when we work toward something (like creating better
relationships with others), we have a much better chance of sticking with it than
when we work against it (like avoiding
conflict with others). Say your goals out loud or write them down—are you using
approach-oriented wording, such as creating,
enhancing, improving, or achieving?
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Center
goals around an activity. Achieving activity-related goals, such as
learning a specific task, meeting a deadline, or creating something tangible,
can help produce feelings of accomplishment and progress, which will encourage
you to keep going in the direction you're headed.
And don't forget—the first and most powerful goal is deciding
to improve. Simply making the decision to improve or enhance your life is a
breakthrough.
