Setting Goals

In sport, as well as in life, it is important to set short and long term goals. If you read my article on motivation you will see that Goal Setting is the key!
It is vital to have an ongoing, periodic review and assessment of the goals so that they do not lose their effectiveness. Sometimes goals need to be adjusted along the way to keep them challenging, as well as realistic. Then, it is important to set short-term and daily goals that lead up to the long-term goal. These become the stepping stones along the way. As you achieve each short-term goal your confidence will grow and you will be that much closer to the next one.
To help you achieve your goals try using the following tips:

• Write down your goals: This is a very important step! Clearly define what the results are that you desire.
•  When devising your series of goals, use the divide and conquer rule. Divide monumental tasks into short-term goals.
•  Prioritize the goals; do not try to do too many things at once. Just assume responsibility for the goal they are working on at the moment.
• Once you set your goal you need to sit down and plan out how they are going to achieve it, mentally and physically.
•  It is important that you keep your goals in line with things you have control over. You can control your effort and the exercise you are working on; you can’t control other people or the situation around them.
• Keep a positive and healthy attitude about your sport. Remember, no one is perfect.
•  Give credit where credit is due: Each day, congratulate yourself for completing the goal you set for that day (or the progress they have made on a certain goal).
• Own your goal: For you to have the desire to take action you must own your goals and be committed to them.
  Assess each new goal you make: Are you willing to do what it takes to reach the goals you have set for yourself?