Hey there, my fellow self-developers. I hope all is well with you.

It’s getting into springtime now here in the UK and my thoughts are turning to holidays and lazy summer days.

I’m also instantly feeling guilty about getting less productive and wandering off target in relation to my ultimate plans for world domination.

Okay, not world domination like a Bond villain but at least domination of my own world.

I know that I need the R&R to recharge my batteries and stay productive, but I also need to feel confident that I’m following a route which will get me where I want to be.

That’s why I’ve been thinking long and hard about goals and goals setting. Many of you may be groaning about this topic because we hear about it all the time.

How many of us do it though? How many of us do it well?

So today, we’re taking a dive into the heart of self-development and looking at goal setting and, more importantly, goal achievement.

Success is all about crafting those dreams into tangible targets and knocking them out of the park, one step at a time.

So, grab your favourite beverage, settle in, and let's examine the secrets to setting realistic goals and, more importantly, achieving them.

Why set goals at all?

Goals are the north star of your personal and professional journeys.

If you don’t know where you are going – how are you going to get anywhere?

Goals guide you, motivate you, and provide a yardstick for measuring your progress.

But here's the thing: not all goals are created equal.

The magic lies in setting goals that are just right – realistic, achievable, and yet, challenging enough to push you beyond your comfort zones.

The Goldilocks Principle of goal setting

Realistic and achievable

Imagine aiming to climb mount Everest next week without any mountaineering experience.

Sounds ambitious for sure, but it's a recipe for disappointment.

Goals should stretch your abilities but remain within the realm of possibility.

This sweet spot keeps motivation high and frustration low.

Specific, measurable, and time-bound

"I want to get fit" is a noble thought, but how do you know when you've arrived?

Instead try, "I want to run a 5K in under 30 minutes by July."

Now, that's a goal you can track, be motivated by and, with effort and diligence, achieve!

The use of a deadlines isn't just for office projects. They apply to personal goals too.

Setting a specific timeframe creates a sense of urgency and helps you prioritise and track actions.

Create actionable plans

A goal without a plan is just a wish.

Break down your big goals into smaller goals. Break those smaller goals or sub-goals, into discreet and actionable steps.

Plan it in any way which works for you but get it planned.

Each step becomes a mini goal in and of itself. All this helps make the overall journey less daunting and more manageable. I call it the baby step approach.

Here’s a link to an article post of mine which goes more deeply into this idea: ​The Baby Step Approach to Goals​

Making it happen

Write it down

There's power in pen and paper (or pixels if you're digital). Writing down your goals solidifies your commitment and serves as a constant reminder of what you're working towards. Make a mood board or create a poster.

Visualise success

Spend a few minutes each day visualising achieving your goal. This mental rehearsal primes your brain for success. What does success look like?

Track progress

Celebrate the small wins along the way. Each step forward is a victory worth recognising. Tracking progress also helps you adjust your plan as needed.

Accountability partners

Share your goals with someone you trust. They can offer support, encouragement, and a gentle nudge when needed.

Embrace flexibility

Life is always throwing us curveballs. If you hit a snag, adjust your plan. Flexibility is key to overcoming obstacles without losing sight of your overall goal.

You still really need a BHAG

Speaking of overall goals, you really do need one. Getting a BHAG is a great start.

A BHAG is a big, hairy, and audacious goal which is essentially your overall vision for the future. They are the big overarching goals.

I joked about world domination earlier but hey, why not? That is indeed a BHAG. The climbing Everest example is also a big hairy audacious goal.

All other smaller goals and goal steps lead you toward the BHAG.

*BTW, the term big hairy audacious goal (BHAG - pronounced “bee hag”) refers to a clear and compelling target that an individual or organisation tries to reach. The term was coined in the book “Built to Last: Successful Habits of Visionary Companies” by Jim Collins and Jerry Porras.

Final Thoughts

Setting realistic and achievable goals is an art and a science.

It's about knowing yourself, pushing your boundaries, and taking it one step at a time.

Remember, the journey towards achieving your goals is just as important as the destination.

So, savour the process, learn from the experiences, and keep moving forward.

Here's to setting goals that inspire you and turning those dreams into reality!

Hopefully that's offered you some food for thought.



Have a good one and I'll see you next month.

All the very best to you and yours

Andrew D Pope.