One Idea:

I struggle with achieving goals.  When I reflect on the goals I have achieved, a few things came to mind.

1. Start with a Clear Goal

A well-written goal is specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART).

SMART Goal Example:

• Specific: I will improve my fitness level by working out three times per week.
• Measurable: I will track the number of workouts completed each week.
• Achievable: I can commit to 30-minute sessions.
• Relevant: Fitness is important for my overall health.
• Time-bound: I will achieve this for the next 3 months.

Goal Statement Example:
“I will complete 3 30-minute workouts per week for the next 3 months to improve my fitness level.”

2. Measure it.  Create a 1-Page Tracking Document

A one-page tracking document should help you visually monitor progress in a straightforward way. Here’s how you can structure it:

A. Header Section

• Goal Title: Include the name of the goal.
• Start Date: The date you began tracking the goal.
• End Date: The date you want to achieve the goal.

B. Tracking Table

Create a table where you can record key information for each day or week (depending on your goal’s timeline).

• Week/Date: Break down progress by the week or by specific dates.
• Task or Milestone: Specify what you need to do (e.g., “Workout 1”, “Read 30 pages”).
• Status/Progress: Write how you did (e.g., “Completed”, “In Progress”, “Incomplete”).
• Notes: Brief notes on how it went, challenges, successes, or adjustments.

C. Weekly Accountability Meeting (WAM)

• Weekly Review: At the end of each week, include a short space to assess:
  • What went well?
  • What could have been better?
  • Adjustments needed for the upcoming week.

D. Final Section

• Goal Achievement Date: After the goal’s time frame, add a space to record the achievement date and whether the goal was met.

The link below is a simple 1 pager I have used to track progress on goals.  It is set up for 12 weeks, but can be used for any duration.   There are 3 circles for each day that can be checked off as you achieve the “key plays” supporting your goal.  (There is a very positive psychological effect when checking the box!)

This system will help you stay on track and motivated as you visually see your progress.

One Question:

What is one goal, if achieved in the next 3 months, would make you feel great?

One Exercise:

This week make a list of your goals.  Select one that is compelling.  Determine what portion of that goal be accomplished in the next 12 weeks.   Write out your smart goal & actions to achieve it.  If motivated after putting it on paper, get started by holding your first WAM (weekly accountability meeting) on Sunday!

P.S. Some helpful hints:

 – Keep your goal tracker in plain site 

– Have daily accomplishments you can check off early in day. (ie. Drink 16oz water when I wake up, Do 20 sit ups)

– Make sure you spend 5-10min a week reflecting on past week & noting any improvements for coming week. (WAM session)

You can do it!

Dave