Once you have identified what you want to achieve, it is time to sort out the realistic goals from the rest. By thinking about your values, strengths, and the skills and abilities you want to develop, you can better clarify your goals.
Dr. Davenport suggests answering these questions from your list of “wants” to sort out the realistic goals from the dreams.
1. Is this my goal or is this goal something someone else wants me to achieve?
If it’s not your goal, it is going to be hard to motivate yourself to strive to achieve it. If someone else wants you to achieve it, consider letting them know you’ll pass on this goal by using a “No-Sandwich” as outlined in a previous post.
2. Is this goal consistent with my values, strengths, and/or those abilities I want to develop?
It’s important to recognize any inconsistencies with your long-term goals or your strengths upfront. If you don’t know your values or strengths, see my previous post on this.
3. Can I commit myself to start striving toward this goal?
To achieve a goal, it is necessary to commit to it. If you can’t commit, you will quit.
4. Can I see myself reaching this goal?
Can you visualize yourself weighing less? Can you see yourself running your own successful business? Can you visualize yourself driving the new Ford Mustang you want to save money to buy? If you can’t see it, you may not believe it: try the next activity in this set of posts.
If you can answer “Yes!” to each question, then you have a realistic goal!
If you can’t answer “Yes!” to each question, then this dream is still a dream: put it on the back burner and think about it in six months to a year.
What’s Next?
Once you have identified your realistic goals, it’s time to get creative and visualize your goals.
Need help applying these concepts?
Call 817.421.8780 or email us to set up an appointment today. Dr. Davenport is happy to help you “get real” about your goals.
Adapted from LD Kids Can! ©1993, Monte Davenport, Excerpt from the I Can! Achievers Course ©1989 used with the written permission of the author and publisher.
(C) 2009-2019, Monte W. Davenport, Ph.D.
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