by Dossie M Terrell

Created on: April 13, 2010   Last Updated: May 29, 2012

A major reason many personal goals fail is because many want  instantaneous results. They usually are not willing to put in the time and the effort it takes to see their dreams to fruition. Then again many may simply reach or aim beyond their skills level. In order to rectify this they should develop a plan, which, at a minimum, should include benchmarks and indicators to gauge progress along the way. If they can develop a workable plan, it follows reason that they either possess the necessary skills or they know how to access those they need.

Planning for individual goals are no different than those of a corporation, and to that end there should be in place a plan that includes a vision and a mission statement, and measurements or benchmarks. Without such a plan and measurements, it may seem like a lifetime before goals are realized.

Appreciate time

It may take longer than expected to reach your goals. The adage “Rome was not built in a day” takes on special meaning when creating, planning and waiting for results. However, let the adage be a reminder that goals are important and to implement them in ways that will yield positive results, may require extra patience. Treat personal goals as active entities that are flexible and capable of being changed, if necessary. There should be room for ongoing refinement in areas that need to be tweaked for further clarification.

Acknowledge competency

Do not decide on a goal or a project  that is beyond your level of competency unless you are willing to commit the time it will take to learn what you need to know.  If you opt to do something outside the range of your proficiency, you will not only frustrate yourself, but you will also annoy those around you. Therefore, be honest about what you can or cannot do and you will likely succeed.

Create a plan

Once you decide on an you are clear about what it is you want to pursue, write the steps down on a blank piece of paper. This is the first step toward seeing your plan into action. Be mindful of unintended consequences as they can torpedo even the best thought-out plan. In any undertaking there will be some uncertainty, therefore try to predict the things that can or may go wrong based on knowledge, experience and judgment. Do not

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