Carolyn Smagalski

Goal Setting

Founder - Editor - Host

Arnold H. Glasgow wrote, "In life, as in football, you won't go far unless you know where the goalposts are. "

I am fortunate to be an Instrument Rated Pilot.  You learn a great deal about goal setting when you are flying in clouds and weather, with no visual reference.  As commander of your aircraft, you do have three things as guidance:  the instrument panel, your charts, and communication with the air traffic controllers.

Before embarking on your journey, you need to pick out your destination.  You must check your aircraft for soundness and proper levels of oil and fuel.  You check the weather to determine any severe hazards that may be in your path, so that you can set a course that will circumvent those hazards.  You communicate with ATC for clearance, every step along the way. 

You keep track of checkpoints, noting any deviations caused by wind, and correcting them immediately, as they occur.   You report to ATC as you reach each checkpoint, along with what your next checkpoint is, and what the one after that will be.  When you reach your goal, you report your success to ATC.

Are you seeing a pattern here?  How effective would your goal setting be, if you set your personal goals and ambitions based on this pattern of success? 

"The reason most people never reach their goals is that they don't define them, or ever seriously consider them as believable or achievable.  Winners can tell you where they are going, what they plan to do along the way, and who will be sharing the adventure with them," writes Denis Waitley.

Set specific goals with the exactness of an Instrument-Rated Pilot.  Follow your course, monitor your progress, make adjustments as the situation requires, avoid the problems when possible, and ask for help as needed.  Applaud yourself each time you reach your destination. 

Content copyright © 2003-2008 by Carolyn Smagalski. All rights reserved.  This content was written by Carolyn Smagalski. If you wish to use this content in any manner, you need written permission.  Contact Carolyn Smagalski

Related Articles

A 'What the Hell' Decision

Determined Action

Pursuing Your Dreams - Successful Goal Setting

Next

Return to Goal Setting Archive

	CQ Web Wide Success Quote: "Research indicates that workers have three prime needs: Interesting work, recognition for doing a good job, and being let in on things that are going on in the company." -- Zig Ziglar

	Expand your World:  Visit The Beer Fox after hours at BellaOnline ***** http://beer.bellaonline.com