Goal Setting Part 1

" Every day do something that will inch you closer to a better tomorrow."

- Doug Firebaugh

Author

Success-minded people understand all too well that success does not just happen.  Success is never the result of some magical power, or a special wish or even a gift from on high.  Success is the result of long hard work, determination and skill.  Most of all, success is the result of habit.  As Aristotle said, "We are what we repeatedly do.  Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit."

                Here are four ways that the success-minded person can develop the habit of excellence in their life.  By doing these things everyday you will soon see that they are a consistent part of your daily routine.

1)  Keep your goals before you

                Have your written goals with you all the time.  Not a long list, but something consistence into a paragraph that clearly states what you are looking to achieve.  A file card is perfect to put in your wallet or purse and pull out to review throughout the day.  The more you read the goal the more real it becomes to you.

2)  Take deliberate action

                By deliberate action I mean action that has been planned out and focused.  Action is not just movement.  Real action has a purpose and it accomplishes something specific.  Do not go into your day with the attitude that you will get to it or that you will do something.  Know exactly what you plan to do this day and be sure to do it.

3)  Never allow distractions

                Success-minded people are thinkers and idea people.  You can come up with new ideas all the time.  Before you start off pursuing something new, always ask yourself, "Is this moving me toward my goal?"  If not, no matter how good or exciting it seems, do not do it.  Keep focused on the goal.  Make everything you do lead you toward that goal.  You will have time to go after something new after you have achieved what you have set out to do.

4)  Be prepared for tomorrow

                At the end of each day, take a few moments and plan the day tomorrow.  What do you need to do to move you forward?  What is the next step to take and the next issue to conquer?  By being ready for tomorrow you can keep focused, act deliberately and move forward to the achievement of you dream.

To read more from John Patrick Hickey or to get his books, training and book him to speak to your church, business or group, visit our website at http://www.growthcenter.net or www.johnpatrickhickey.com.   © 2014 John Patrick Hickey