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Going for the Goals
by Linda Larsen, CSP
© Copyright 2000

Last week you made a wish list of over 50 things that you would love to do or have if money and time were absolutely no object. You weren't saying that you WOULD do those things, you rather created a comprehensive list that you could look at on a regular basis that would stimulate your imagination and your desire. When it comes time to actually set your goals (like right now!) you will have a great list to draw from.

Now let's create some categories. While I am going to give you some suggestions, I encourage you to create your own if you need to. I invite you to get a large sheet of paper and across the top create the following four categories:

1. Personal (this will include physical, emotional, mental, hobbies, etc.)
2. Professional (income, educational, advancement)
3. Family (includes relationship building)
4. Spiritual (community contributions, religious, making a difference in the lives of others)

Refer to your Personal Possibilities List if you need to and begin to set your goals. You may make more than one under each category - but no more than 3. You don't want to overwhelm yourself! Post this sheet where you can see it daily. Let your creative mind begin to work on the process while you begin to plan your strategies.

Also, please answer the following questions about each goal you choose:

1. What stands in my way of achieving this goal?
2. What knowledge and information will I need to make this goal a reality?
3. Who and where are my resources to help me with this? (People, books, organizations, etc.?)
4. What's my plan? What are all the action steps I will need to take in order to move me forward?
5. What is the very first step that I will need to take in the next 24 hours?
6. What will be the cost to me in one, 10 and 20 years if I don't take action? What will my life look like and feel like?
7. What will be the payoff to me in one, 10 and 20 years when I do accomplish this goal? What will my life look and feel like?

I know this seems like a lot of work. It does take some time. But remember my favorite quote: "Successful people are willing to do what unsuccessful people aren't willing to do." And if you feel you lack the motivation, then do the exercise and it will help you CREATE the motivation!

Remember I said last week that my CD series, 12 Secrets to High Self-Esteem, started on my wish list? Well, I did take it off the wish list and put it on my goal sheet in January of 1998. On January 21st (like 3 weeks later) I got a call from the publisher at SkillPath Publishing asking me if I would consider creating a new audio program for them on building high self-esteem.

Let me mention something here. Publishers do NOT call you and ask if they can publish your work. Not unless your name is Stephen King or Jackie Collins. The phone call alone was a miracle.

What you want out of life is probably not just going to fall in your lap. It never has in mine. A lot of work went into proving myself before I was offered the opportunity to create that audio series. I had to build my credibility and strengthen my relationships so that I was a logical choice for the project when it became available. I had to set my goals, develop a plan and then work my little fanny off.

And the payoff? Tremendous. Outrageous! Amazing!! I have been able to create a resource that gives people powerful tools to help build their confidence and get the respect that they deserve. I've been able to realize the dream of helping people who seemed to share some of the same challenges I had growing up. I have received wonderful feedback. People tell me how their lives have changed. They report how they are beginning to accomplish their goals and dreams. They tell me they finally feel like they deserve all the good that life has to offer. Now THAT makes me feel GREAT!!

So, what would you rather have? An OK, so-so life filled with whatever is left over after others get what they want? Or do you want passion, fun, love, joy, great health, financial success and fabulous relationships?

It's your choice. I encourage you to go for your goals!

Word count 755.

Tag line: Linda Larsen, CSP, helps individuals think strategically, communicate effectively, and celebrate success. She is an international keynote speaker, trial consultant and author of the book, True Power, and the best selling audio program, 12 Secrets to High Self-Esteem. She can be reached at www.lindalarsen.com or 941-927-4700.

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