It seems like we were just celebrating New Years, doesn’t it? In the blink of an eye, we’re already months into 2024. I imagine that many of you set goals and priorities for your businesses at the end of last year, or the beginning of this one. For some of you, learning better goal-setting skills may have been a goal in itself. But what I find to be the most common challenge with goals isn’t so much setting them but following through. So, let’s talk about setting goals and actually making them happen.

You may have heard me say before that setting goals is like creating a roadmap for the journey you want to take. As such, your goals need to be SMART – Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Timely. None of that vague “I want my business to succeed” stuff. Break it down into the most bite-sized, actionable steps that you can track and measure. Much will depend on your keeping track of these steps.

Next, you must learn how prioritize your goals. You can’t do it all at once. Sometimes, you will need to figure out what is most important right now and focus all of your energy at that target. Make sure the goal is challenging but realistic. You want to push yourself, but not set yourself up for failure. Don’t sell yourself short, though, by telling yourself that a goal is too hard before you’ve given it an honest try.

Now, here’s the secret ingredient upon which the whole recipe hinges – accountability. One of the best ways to stay accountable is to share your goals with someone you trust – a mentor, a spouse, a business partner – anyone who will hold you to your word. If you’re able to find a solid accountability partner, that’s a relationship that will certainly prove its worth as you continue to push each other and keep each other in check.

But all the planning and accountability in the world will never prevent every bump in the road. That’s where resilience comes in. When you hit a snag, adjust your course if needed, but never lose sight of the end goal. Overcoming obstacles and recovering from setbacks is just another valuable skill in the entrepreneur’s toolbelt.

As always, don’t just take my word for it. Set those goals, make yourself a plan, find someone to hold you accountable, and keep on hustling! Success won’t happen overnight, but with enough determination and the right skillset, you’ll get there before you know it.

Jackie