KSS January eKourier

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

THE POWER OF GOAL SETTING

Whether it’s a specific position at KSS, a finish line you’re dying to cross or a vague notion of a life well lived, most of us have an idea of where we want to go. Imagining that incredible mountain peak with winding trails to reach the top can be daunting. Knowing where to begin, how long it will take and the necessary steps to reach said goal is not an easy feat. Fortunately, there is power in setting goals along the way to put achievement within reach. effort when it comes to goal setting, and certain strategies have been

proven to be more successful. To start, establish small, achievable goals, and set them often. Set small goals that you are confident you can achieve, surpass them and then set new goals. Small benchmarks will keep you from getting discouraged and help you stay focused with little victories along the way. The size of your goal will dictate how far you break it down, reducing it further and further until it’s one small task that you’re sure you can complete in the time frame set. For example, if your goal is to run a half marathon, maybe start by trying to run 5km. But, before that, start by completing a training program. And, to break it down even further, start by completing the first day of that 5km training program today. Each small step brings you another check mark closer to that broader goal. The same study by Gail Matthews also found that participants were far more likely to achieve their goals if they wrote them down. Yes, meaning actually putting pen to paper. So, grab a notebook, mood board or just a post-it on the mirror and write each goal down. Give yourself an opportu- nity to check in with weekly progress reports—another keystone of success with Matthews’ group. Of course, you won’t have someone monitoring your every move, but it’s important to check in with yourself to keep things on track. And, it will give you another opportu- nity to be mindful, feel gratitude for the process and look positively toward the next step.

G oal setting is the process of defining what you are looking to accomplish and mapping out the necessary steps to achieve it. Goal setting must involve significant planning, dedication and measure- ment to be effective. The end goal may be a far reach, and getting there might take days, weeks, months or even years. With proper strategies, lengthy timelines can be less intimidating and successful outcomes within sight. The best place to begin is with reflec- tion. Invest the time in reflecting on where you are now and allow yourself to feel gratitude for the present and the journey up ahead. As you reflect, recognise the category in which the goal fits. Is your goal family and home life oriented? Is it a professional or career- related goal? Or, is your goal related to personal growth? The better you understand where your goal falls, the better you’ll be able to plan the steps toward achievement. Constructing a path toward success that you define, recognise and own is a powerful tool to increase the likelihood of achievement. With a plan in place, you’re committed and held accountable

when each piece of the plan is either surpassed or left standing. In other words it gives you long-term vision and short-term motivation. From Michael Jordon to Elon Musk, goal setting is something you’ll likely find among most—if not all—successful people. Goal setting is not only a helpful strategy, but a proven one. Research shows it benefits self-esteem, self-confidence and self-reliance. A 2015 study by psychologist Gail Matthews also found a strong link between goal setting and success. With research at the helm, it’s clear that goal setting not only benefits mindset, but also outcomes. recognise and own is a powerful tool to increase the likeli- hood of achievement Constructing a path toward success that you define, ‘

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Wayne Brown Training & Development Manager

The planning is just as important as the

16 Kennards Kourier Jan 2022