Achieve your Goals in 2016
We all have desires, wishes and things we would like to have, do or become in the months ahead, but without a plan we are often sidetracked and fail to achieve our goals. What follows is a map of how to set a goal that includes everything you need to consider in order to make it happen. Have a go and see if you can set yourself a meaningful goal that you can follow for the next few months. I have written an example goal (related to riding a dressage test and winning) using the template below:
1. State your Goal
Using SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, realistic and timed)
To win a dressage test by the end of July 2016 (this is specific, measurable and timed) I have considered my current abilities and believe that I can achieve this by the date stated and it is realistic (any sooner and it would not be realistic for me).
2. Current Reality
I have managed to win a dressage competition before so I know that I can do this. I also know that I have enough time to practise and take lessons in order to learn the dressage test and improve my riding abilities.
3. Specify the Outcome
This helps you to use your senses to give you an understanding of what you will see and hear and how you will feel when you have achieved the goal
What I will see:
People and horses looking smart and happy.
Myself in my dressage outfit with polished boots, white gloves, jacket, hat and looking smart.
My horse looking well groomed and behaving well.
The Judges looking at me and my horse and taking notes.
What I will hear:
The silence of the spectators as they watch my test.
The applause at the end of the test.
What I will feel:
Excitement before the test.
Enjoyment and pleasure when doing the test.
The feeling of having done the test well.
Pleased with myself at the end of the test.
Joy when the Judge announces that I have won!
4. Evidence that the goal has been achieved
I am holding a red rosette in my hand and people applauding and congratulating me.
5. Congruence – what does this goal give you?
Improved riding skills
Improved fitness and health
Ability to progress further with my riding
6. Self Initiated – who wants you to achieve this goal?
Myself – no-one else is responsible for setting this goal
7. Contextualised
Where will this happen?
Local riding school
When?
Starting January through to July
How?
Lots of riding lessons and practise
Who is involved?
Myself, my riding instructor, my family (for ongoing support and encouragement)
8. Resources
Funds to pay for lessons
Time to practise and attend the lessons
A suitable horse for dressage
A copy of the test that I need to learn
Have you done this before?
Yes, I have carried out dressage tests and have won before
Has anyone else achieved this?
Yes, many riders at all levels
Can you act as if you already have achieved it?
Yes, I know what it is like to win and the feeling of wanting to progress to the next test
9. Ecological – what are you likely to gain or lose by going for this goal?
Gain
Confidence
Self esteem
Pride
Lose
Time spent doing something else
A bit of confidence if I don’t win
I hope the above helps you to start to think about what you want to achieve next year and by going through this 9 step process you can have confidence and commitment to start the goal. Good luck!
If you need any help with your goal setting or would like further information about energy techniques such as Reiki, EFT, Meditation to help you with relaxation and general wellbeing, please contact me: jane@reikijane.co.uk