4 Helpful Goal-Setting Tips
Setting appropriate goals is a very important part of starting, and then growing your small business. Your goals will provide you with direction, motivation, and an efficient way to measure your progress as you move forward. It will also help you to see the big picture so you can stay focused.
The following 4 goal-setting tips will help you focus on the specifics of what you hope to accomplish.
The Dream
The very first step is to think about your dream. It can be a realistic dream, but it doesn’t have to be. Don’t limit yourself! Now is the time, at the beginning, to consider all the possibilities. Take some notes; you should have a one-year plan, a five-year plan, and a ten-year plan. Don’t worry just now about how you will get there – you’re dreaming.
The Options
Now you can take all your dreams and ideas and start to sort them. Use a few categories and base them on your own priorities, such as:
- Attainability
- Desirability
- Time Commitment
- Financial Impact
You may find that a few consistent themes show up, and this will tell you that you are on the right track.
The Plan
After you have your ideas sorted, you should be able to identify a few of your goals that you can focus on right now. Use the “SMART” guidelines (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, Time-Based) to help you set your goals in actionable steps.
The Focus
If you break your goals into small steps that can be taken without undue fuss, you should be able to move forward consistently every day towards the achievement of even your most ambitious goals, and your momentum will build without you even noticing it.
As a small business owner myself, I’ve experienced all the many challenges and frustrations that you may face every day, and with that in mind, I have dedicated myself to speaking, coaching, teaching, and inspiring others to achieve their business goals. Whether you need resources, guidance, or just someone to talk to, I am here for you.
I’m Anna-Vija McClain, and I am proud to serve the Nashville business community.