We all have dreams and aspirations, often residing as visions in our hearts and minds. Could putting them in writing help us turn them into reality?
Transform Your Goals into Reality
Clearly and specifically articulating a goal can be beneficial in numerous ways.
There are entire frameworks dedicated to this concept, such as SMART goals, which propose that clearly defining one’s objectives in terms of actionable steps and deadlines enhances the likelihood of achieving them.
But what steps do you take once you’ve identified your goal? How frequently do you write your goals down? This practice can be beneficial for several reasons:
Motivation
The simple act of writing a goal down can be motivating. This may stem from the experience of seeing the words manifested on a page. Before the goal becomes a reality, having it written down serves as a symbolic representation of the beginning of your journey to make it tangible.
As a reminder
Keeping your goal written in a place where you can easily refer to it—like in your daily journal or on a notice board—can serve as a constant reminder of what you’re ultimately striving for. This is especially useful during times of distraction or stress. Recalling our goals can provide the motivation we need when we’re uncertain about whether our efforts are worthwhile.
Tracking progress
Maintaining a record of your goal can serve as a stable reference point to revisit over time and assess your progress. Sharing your goals with your coach and regularly reflecting on them during your sessions can be particularly beneficial in ensuring you successfully achieve them.
Focusing on what’s important
Life can lead us in many directions, and we often face competing demands along the way. It’s crucial to be able to “filter” out what’s truly important, and having your goal clearly written down can help you better determine where to direct your focus and attention.