Around this time of year, it’s common to start losing sight of our goals and progress. We create New Year’s resolutions with full intent to achieve them, but creating a goal without a solid plan, makes things difficult. Setting a goal is the first step, but it’s the action plan that will get you there. Let’s talk about the essentials needed to create a plan that actually helps you reach your goals!
Focus on the Details
What is an action plan anyway? It’s more than just a buzzword that planners use. An action plan is a series of bite-size steps that detail the specific actions you need to take to achieve your goal. When it comes to your plan – details matter! It’s essential to write down the who, what, where, when, and how for each step.
Breaking down your goals into smaller, more manageable steps is how your action plan comes to life. For example, if your goal is to lose weight, your action plan might include steps like “exercise for 30 minutes every day,” “eat a healthy breakfast every morning,” and “drink eight glasses of water a day.” If you’re starting a business, your plan might include “create a business plan” or “get a business license.” These steps should be specific and measurable, so you can track your progress and make adjustments as needed.
Rely on Your Resources
Achieving your goals takes more than just willpower and a plan. You rely on the resources around you to make them happen. Include those resources in your plan, so you know exactly what’s needed to take action.
Knowing your resources will help you identify the steps you need to take to achieve your goal. For example, if you’re trying to lose weight and you don’t have a gym membership, your action plan might include steps like “find free workout videos online.” If you’re starting a business, your resources might be business blogs that help entrepreneurs. Identify your resources, so you can make use of them when needed.
Work on Time Management
When you’re a goal-getter that’s dedicated to achievement, you likely lack an essential part of doing so – time. You can’t achieve your goals without time, so you have to manage your time well. Knowing your own schedule and how much time you have available will help you create reasonable action steps that fit your lifestyle.
For example, if you’re a busy working parent, your action plan might include steps like “exercise for 30 minutes before work,” “eat a healthy lunch during your lunch break,” and “spend 30 minutes with your kids before bed.” If you’re building your business while working a 9-5, you might schedule meetings in the evening or on your lunch break. By taking into account your schedule and time constraints, you can create an action plan that is realistic and achievable.
Practice Accountability
The biggest factor that will help you achieve your goals is holding yourself accountable to them. When creating your action plan, you must include this as accountability will help you stay on track and motivated. You can find an accountability partner in a friend, family member, or even an online community.
Have you heard of accountability coaching? Yes, you can hire someone whose sole focus is to keep you accountable to your goals. Someone like me! I work with my clients to help them set their goals, create a detailed and customized action plan, and hold them accountable. Are your goals important to you? Book a complimentary call with me here, so we can discuss how to create a plan that actually works for you.
