It is so easy to harbour thoughts about starting a business or I am going to be top salesman next year or I will be debt free in another 5 years. But, are we defining attainable goals? Are we defining them effectively? In general, the goal is what makes dreams into action and thus takes us to reality, our reality. It is never enough to just have a dream collection. That will only amount to the museum of dreams that will never manifest into reality. We need to start believing in the power of written goals and using a smart approach to effectively and efficiently see them become reality instead of a disillusionment.

The 4^th Annual Staples National Small Business Survey, surveyed 300 small businesses and found over 80 percent of the owners don’t keep track of their business goals and from this 80 percent , 77 percent have yet to achieve their companys’ vision. This is prove of how important it is to define your goals in an effective way to guarantee the vision is carried out for the overall success and sustainability of the business.

It is understandable that some persons were not taught how to write effective goals. But, there are usually basic principles that can be followed to get you started.

They were thoughts and dreams before, so let’s get them on paper. I would suggest not passing seven (7) as you don’t want to overwhelm yourself. Remember we want them to be attainable, effective and productive. So, hopefully you have not written something like “Forbes 500 list by 2017”. Keep that one in the museum right now and write things that are in your control and that you can implement. I would also not suggest sub goals, you want to have a look at that list in another 3-5 years and  50% of those goals are crossed off.

We are all use to this acronym, but is proven time and time again that it works. Your goals should be;

Specific            : Define exactly what you want to accomplish and in a specific time frame.

Measureable    : Quantify the results, you want an encouraging idea to hit your goal.

Actionable       : You want your goal to be achievement, not a procrastination.

Realistic           : Let the goals be attainable, try to extend a little further without stretching yourself thin.

Time-bound    : Each goal should be time bound or you risk it still being a dream.

The goals have been written and planned and it is now on to the implementation phase. But, it is also advisable you share them with persons who can assist you with achieving them. Defining a goal effectively is not just helpful in attaining them but it is the fundamental basics for success.