The right #goals

Who doesn't know the hashtags that talk about goals? - #relationshipgoals #friendshipgoals #fitnessgoals, #hairgoals and the list goes on. But are we setting the right or enough goals in our own lives? Should we aim for relationship goals, for example, because we see a couple smiling into a camera and that automatically makes us assume they are doing great? Have we become that shallow? Without knowing anything about these strangers who seem to look good on the outside, your goal should not only focus on looking good outwardly. However, it could be one component of a higher purpose that focuses more on what truly counts, which is who you are as a person!

Goal setting is super important, but setting the right ones even more so. Why? Because working on achieving a specific goal will always take time, effort and dedication. That's why you should be smart about your goals to ensure that your efforts are not in vain. Nobody can give you back the time you wasted on pursuing a shallow or inauthentic goal. Even worse, a goal that wasn't meant for you in the first place. In my opinion, goal setting should be a step by step process.

1. The significant first step in goal setting is to look at yourself first - kind of like a "current-state-assessment." What kind of person are you at the moment and who do you want to become? Where are you spiritually and mentally? What about your physical health? Where do you currently stand in your career or your education? Once you've assessed these things honestly and objectively, continue with step #2.

2. Knowing your "what"! I think this phase is the determining factor if you will achieve your goal or not. This is the prep stage, and as we know proper preparation is everything. Before you dive into pursuing a particular goal, you need to see if you already have what it takes to get started. If not, then you need to work on getting those things in place to kick-start your pursuit. What are the tools you need to get to your goal?

3. The third step is all about time. How long do you give yourself to get to your set goal? Having a predefined time frame matters because without that, you might end up embarking on an endless pursuit. You could even end up going in circles without making any progress at all. Also, having a set time will encourage you to work smarter and be more efficient with your time and resources.

4. The last thing I'd say is preparing for the lows. This phase is about building your mind for the times you feel down or discouraged. Those days you simply want to give up. Which motivational mechanisms do you have in place for those days? Inspirational and motivational words, and the right "allies" that are on the journey with you, is just what you need. They could be family, friends or sometimes even strangers that happen to pursue the same goal - find like-minded people. That way you'll be able to exchange ideas and keep your eyes on the prize, especially in those moments you need that extra portion of motivation.

You've set your goal, what now? You get to work! As you push towards achieving a specific goal, there will be hurdles, opposition and moments of discouragement but above all, there will be the support to keep you going, so don't ever give up! "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." Romans 8:28 NIV