Earlier this month we hosted our first virtual event of the year, all about goal setting. Here our event speaker, Jo Porter, Founder and Director of Leading Lighter, shares her tips for goal setting made simpler:
Despite most of us wanting to set and achieve goals, sometimes it can seem like yet another thing we need to do.
Here are some practical tips to take the pressure off and help make the process of identifying and achieving your goals a bit easier.
- Start small and personal
Goal setting doesn’t have to be about grand, life-changing ambitions. It can start with something small and personal. Think about what truly matters to you, not what you think should matter. Maybe it’s finding a few minutes each day for yourself, or perhaps it’s reconnecting with a hobby you love. The key is to choose something that resonates with you personally. When your goals are aligned with your values and passions, they become much more achievable and meaningful.
- Embrace the journey, not just the destination
We often get caught up in the end result, but it’s important to find joy in the journey. Instead of focusing solely on the outcome, appreciate the small steps and progress you make along the way. This approach not only makes the process more enjoyable but also reduces the pressure to achieve the next thing. Remember, it’s about progress, not perfection. Celebrate your small victories and use them as motivation to keep moving forward.
- Be kind to yourself
Goal setting can sometimes feel like a daunting task, especially when you’re already juggling so much. It’s okay to take it slow and be kind to yourself. If things don’t go as planned, don’t be too hard on yourself. Adjust your actions, not your goals. Visualise your success, plan for obstacles and seek support when needed. Remember, it’s perfectly fine to ask for help and lean on your community.
- Write down and share your goals
This may sound obvious but write your goals down. I can’t stress this enough. When we carry a goal around in our head, we edit and evolve it over time, which means we don’t notice our progress. Being able to reread a goal we wrote 3 or 6 months ago to see what has changed can be very satisfying.
Once you’ve written it down, tell someone about it. A friend, colleague, mentor, anyone. Ask them if you can share your progress as you go. Sharing your goals increases the likelihood you will achieve them. Choose someone who will offer enthusiastic support and encouragement, and who will give you a boost if your motivation wanes.
- Break down your goals
Consider small, actionable steps that can lead to progress. If your goal is to improve your professional skills, perhaps you could commit to attending one workshop, having a coffee with someone you admire, or reading one relevant book each month. Breaking down your goals into smaller, manageable tasks can make them feel less overwhelming and more achievable. Ask yourself, what’s the smallest action I could take today that would move me closer to my goal?
I wish you all the very best with your 2025 goals! Let’s make it a year of meaningful progress, one small step at a time.