Dreaming big dreams is the first start towards achieving a fulfilling goal. The main difference between a dream and a materialized goal is that goals are specific things written down with a specific plan to achieve that. When you have a clear picture of what you want, your mind begins to look at the world differently. Through these new lenses, you begin to notice the people, resources and ideas that will help you get closer to your goal. However, if your goal is not specific enough, your mind might not know exactly what to look for that will help your each your end destination.
That is why you need to have a specific plan of action to get your to your goals, which is similar to having a map that will guide you to your final destination. There are seven things to keep in mind when you are creating that strategic action plans:
1) Know your time frame – when do you want to reach your goal? For example, if your goal is to lose weight, decide on a specific time you want to achieve that goal, such as July 31 of this year.
2) Map your route – ask yourself questions like what courses will you take? What are your milestones that lie intermediate between now and your time frame?
3) Who will be involved in your journey – perhaps it's your spouse or kids? A friend or a business partner?
4) Who do you need? Have you decided on a mentor or coach? Or a friend that has been in your shoes before, and knows how to get to your final goal?
5) What research is needed? In order to get to your goal, what type of research do you need to undertake to provide you with enough knowledge and know-how on getting to your destination?
6) What resources are needed? Just like taking a road trip where you need gas, a map, and a functional car, list the resources you need to get you to your final goal.
7) What training do you need? When taking a road trip, you may brush up on how to use your car's GPS or navigation system. What skills do you need to brush up on, or learn, to get you to your goal?
Now that you have taken these points into consideration, think of your goal and start creating your action plan to get there. Good luck!
