Probably the hardest part of setting goals is the first step of actually deciding to take

action! The first barrier facing most people is the incorrect assumption that goals are only for business people. The reality is everyone sets goals mentally throughout the day. There are always occasions where something has to be done at a particular time or in a particular place. Simple examples could be getting up at a certain time in order to be at work, or to meet with a friend for a leisure activity.

The beauty of having goals is the uniqueness of each one to the goal setter. Whether it is personal, financial, business or spiritual, they are all specific to that person and their circumstances.

The most important part initially is to write them down. Having goals written down gives you incredible power while helping you to focus on this area.

Aim for something that will stretch you while remaining achievable. If you achieve your goal too easily, it is not high enough to make any significant change in your life and needs to be adjusted. On the other hand, if you consistently miss the goals, re-evaluate, and consider setting them a little lower as you will only get discouraged and probably give up. The aim is to keep growing, and moving into a more satisfactory position for your particular circumstances.

As you obtain the levels that you have set for yourself, always include a small reward at each point. This might only be a small thing in the early days like a meal out or a weekend vacation.

Remember that these changes will not happen overnight and there will be a period of time when nothing seems to be happening. This is why the goals need to be detailed and as specific as possible with consequence and benefit.

Allow some time on a daily basis to educate yourself on how to make the necessary adjustments in your life. This could include listening to a CD, or reading a book on motivation etc.

A simple method to start with could be one goal in the main areas of life to be achieved in one month, six months, twelve months or five years. Break that down further into a daily, weekly and monthly system. Stay focused and disciplined to achieve all that you desire.

The simple examples in Paragraph I convey the message that ______.

A．goals are set mostly for important things

B．most people know when it is time to set goals

C．people set goals to get things done all the time

D．it is necessary to set goals occasionally