Making and Achieving Goals

1. Pick ONE Goal: This is important! You can only achieve your goals if you focus on them one at a time. Once your goal has been accomplished or is a stable habit you can start on the next goal.

2. Simplify: Choose a small, specific goal, or you can break up larger goals into smaller goals so they can be done on a daily basis. Big successes start with small steps.3. Write It Down: Paper makes it official: You Want It! Once you write your goal down put it in a place where you will see it several times a day.

4. Keep Track Every Day: This is IMPORTANT! If you don't keep track of your progress on a daily basis you won't progress.

5. You Have To Want It: If you don't really want to do it, you won't succeed. Pick goals you want to achieve or change your attitude so you REALLY do want it.

6. Schedule Time: Here are three ideas to help you make time for your goal:

· Prioritize: Make time by not doing things that are of less, or no, value. Use hours in front of the TV or computer more productively.
· Say No: Learn to say no to those who ask for your time when you already have too much to do.
· Make the Time: You have to MAKE the time or you won't MAKE the goal. Pick a time when you will work on your goal, such as early in the morning, late at night, during lunch, when children are napping. If you "just don't have the time" then wake up earlier. Most people only need 6 hours of deep sleep.

7. Be Firm Yet Flexible: To achieve your goal you have to be firm with yourself. You have to do the required work to accomplish your goal. You also have to be a bit flexible. Make a backup plan for days when achieving your goal might be difficult.

8. Be Positive: Talk to yourself by picking a positive "phrase that you will train your mind to focus on at different times through out the day until it begins to dominate your awareness and reshape the person you are.

9. Pray About It: Choosing righteous goals is just what the Lord wants us to do, so ask for his help. As you daily pray and work to wards your goal you will see daily success.

Happy Birthday Gabe, hope it is a good one. Best wishes!