Goal Setting and Why It’s Ok to “Change” Your Goals

January 28, 2021

If there is a single word we could use to describe our experience in 2020 it would be “flexible.” Why? Because so many people started the year unable to imagine that within three months most work would be done remotely. It was critical for companies and their employees to learn to be more flexible and that’s an important skill to cultivate. Many people believe they need to set a goal and keep it, but there’s a big difference between moving the goalpost and pivoting along the path to success. Here are things to consider moving forward when obstacles get in the way of your goals.

Reframe Your Goals

The most important thing you can ever learn is that it’s okay for your goals to change. It’s essential to reevaluate your goals frequently to see if you’re still on track or if you need to make adjustments for the future. It can be helpful to reframe your goals based on changes in your circumstances.

Develop a Routine

When you are set on achieving your goal, the best way to get to the finish line is to establish a routine. What is it you want to achieve? How can you break that down into smaller tasks that will get you closer to the end goal? When you know what tasks you have to do, it’s easier to break them down into chunks to accomplish them.

Find an Accountability Partner

Did you know that you are more likely to accomplish a goal if you discuss it with others? By giving yourself someone to be accountable to, you will be less inclined to put off the work it will take to achieve what you want. Many people find it useful to have a network of accountability partners. Everyone may be working toward the same or a different goal. But checking in with one another helps make everything more real.

Keep a Journal

Similarly, if you write things down you will give yourself personal accountability. You are 42% more likely to accomplish a goal if you write it down. If you keep a journal, you can track each task and see your accomplishments unfold. It’s also a good way to go back to the beginning when you are reevaluating your goals to see where you started and if you need to adjust.