The first thing we must do to effectively live our lives is to give some thought to what we want in life.  This is where goal setting comes into play.  We are not one-dimensional creatures.  We have many facets to ourselves.  We have, among others, private personal areas, relationship areas, family areas, business and career areas, financial and spiritual areas in our lives.  Each of these areas demands and needs our attention.

We have decisions to make in each of these areas.  Again, most of us drift through life wondering why we are getting nowhere.  This is why goal setting is so important.  To get the most out of life, we must give each of the above areas some serious thought.Of course the earlier we start in life with goal setting, the better.  However, it is never too late to learn to set goals.  You can begin today.  Take some time to sit and think about your life and what you want out of the rest of it.  Examine each area of your life.  Think about where you are now and where you would like to be in a few years. 

Write down what you would like to accomplish.  Begin with just the day in front of you.  What do you want to do with it?  It’s a gift that won’t come again.  Plan your day to get the most out of it that you can.  Then expand your horizons.  Set goals for this week, this month, for the rest of the year, for the rest of your life.

Goals for your new business need to be in line with the goals you have for your family. If your new business will take 70 hours a week forever to make it work and your kids are toddlers…well, let’s just say you have some serious thinking to do.

A new business will take more time in the beginning. How will you fit in the time around your children? Goal setting can help you figure that out. It will be easier to plan your day if you know you need to write for 20 minutes each day, do some reading and training for 30 minutes each day and do networking for 45 minutes. You’ll also be more effective during that time when you put it in.

I’ve also found that when you’re working on a new project it’s hard to find the time to ‘turn it off’. Your mind is racing and you want to do more, more, more. With a goal and a plan you’ll know when you’ve accomplished enough for today.

Goal setting is one of the most important and valuable exercises we will ever do.  It defines our lives.  Give serious thought to your goal setting.  The rewards will be greater than you can imagine.