Goal Setting - In Theory
             and In Practice

Task Scheduling  

 Upon defining a goal you believe you can attain, the next step is to break it down into smaller, manageable tasks and schedule them in sequence (assuming one task depends on the completion of another). Before defining the target date for completing the overall goal, be certain that each task is given a reasonable amount of time for completion and allow the sum of the tasks to define the completion date. This is much more realistic than arbitrarily selecting a target or completion date.

Project Management

   If your project is going to take a significant length of time, schedule regular progress reviews, even if you're the only one involved. For example, scheduling time every Friday afternoon to review your progress and make any necessary adjustments will keep your goals current. Don't be surprised when something unexpected interferes with your scheduling. It's not at all uncommon. Just identify some way to compensate for the delay.

Don't become too involved in the mechanics of managing your progress - this could lead to consuming more time than you are spending on actually doing the things that are required to accomplish your goal.

   For a simple project, a basic spreadsheet will often suffice. For larger scale management, a variety of goal or project management software exists, usually scalable for most organizations.

   Aside from actually working the process towards eventually realizing your goal, a valuable final step is to evaluate the overall process and your performance. This should be done objectively and regarded as a learning opportunity, one that will help you to improve your performance the next time.