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Setting Goals To Achieve Balance In Life

by Marlene Wallace, President Career Concepts, Inc.

Most professionals have read a multitude of articles and attended countless seminars throughout their careers on setting and achieving goals.

We all know that successful goal setting requires that goals be attainable, measurable and of course, written down.

Studies have shown that we increase our success rate considerably when we (1). Have daily reminders, (2). Plan for roadblocks, (3). document our successes and celebrate small victories along the way.

Before committing to goals, however, we need to ask the following questions:

(1). Why is this goal important to me? What are the core reasons I want to achieve this goal? EXAMPLE: “Do I want to lose weight to attend a special social function and impress my friends?” Worthy enough, certainly, but lets dig deeper. “Do I want to attain and maintain a healthy lifestyle in order to live a fuller life, be a positive role model for my family, and increase my self-esteem? ”

Experts say that (not surprisingly) the more deeply felt the reason for the goal, the more chance for success we will have.

(2). Am I willing to make the sacrifices necessary to reach this goal? (What am I giving up?)

(3) Am I accepting responsibility for my own growth? (not blaming other if I fail)

Business guru, Stephen R. Covey suggests in his book, “First Things First” that we have four basic needs that are fundamental to human fulfillment and “balance” in our lives:

1. Physical (LIVING) Exercise, nutrition, rest, healthy mindset, financial stability.

2. Social (LOVING) Quality Relationships with others (family, friends, coworkers)

3. Mental (LEARNING) Growing, gaining new perspectives, acquiring new skills, ongoing personal and professional development

4. Spiritual (LEAVING LEGACY) Clear sense of direction, purpose (How will our children view us?)

Covey writes that these four basic needs are highly interrelated and must be met to achieve harmony, balance and peace in our lives.

Conversely, if we are in poor health, feel alienated and alone, mentally stagnant or don't have a sense of purpose and integrity, our quality of life suffers.

Setting and achieving one attainable, measurable goal in each of the four segments of our lives, is the first step toward reaching that enviable balance!

also published in The Shelby County Reporter - 10/24/2007
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