Our Best Goal Setting Tips For 2020

Whether or not you’re into New Year’s resolutions—there’s definitely something to be said for setting intentions and goals at the start of a brand-new decade that will work to set the tone for the year.

Here at Gill & Hooper, we’re all about setting ourselves up for success, and, to us, that includes consistently working on goals and plans that will enrich our careers and personal lives. Here are our best tips for goal setting and planning your way to success during 2020 and beyond.

SET SMART GOALS

It’s an obvious one, but with good reason. Ever heard the acronym SMART when it comes to goal setting? It refers to making sure any goals set meet the following criteria:

Specific
Measurable
Attainable
Relevant
Time-based

By making sure anything you wish to achieve meets these standards, you’re putting yourself in the best possible position to actually accomplish your goals.

SET GOALS THAT YOU’RE ACTUALLY MOTIVATED TO ACHIEVE

Sure, you might want to become head of your department by the time the year is through—but unless you’re motivated to put in the necessary work to get there (providing the goal is SMART, of course), there’s simply no point in giving it energy until you are.

Goals are an entirely personal entity, and you need to understand exactly why it’s important to you. This means being completely honest about how much you’re willing to commit to one is key.
If you’re not quite ready to make necessary sacrifices, simply put the goal on your mental shelf and revisit when you are.

MAKE AN ACTION PLAN AND GET GRANULAR

And we mean, really granular. You know how ticking items off of a to-do list is up there with one of life’s most satisfying activities? Well, getting down to the nitty gritty when it comes to your goals will mean you’re splitting them up into manageable tasks—and ensure you’re ticking your way through them sooner rather than later. Winner, winner, goal-setting dinner.

SET ASIDE TIME EACH DAY TO CHECK IN WITH YOUR GOALS

The only way to stay on track is to make sure you’re continuously and consistently checking in with your goals—seeing where you’re at and noting any adjustments that need to be made to keep you treading the path of success. Designating time each day, even multiple times a day (and putting it in your calendar to ensure you take action!) will keep you comfortably and confidently tracking along with your goals.

SEEK INTERNAL AND EXTERNAL ACCOUNTABILITY

By doing the above, you’ll keep yourself internally accountable—however designating an external source can be another great way of staying accountable and on track.

Why not discuss your goals with a mentor, close friend or family member, and set up reoccurring meetings where you can reflect on your progress? If you’ve got someone beyond yourself to answer to—especially if it’s an industry professional who’s work you admire—you’re way more likely to reach your goals.