Your Guide to Goal Setting in 2021
Looking back over the year that was, 2020 has been a time of adapting to constant change, ambiguity and quite possibly learning the value of surrender. Letting go of the things we can’t control in our business and personal lives can be therapeutic.
But as the year comes to a close it’s time to reset and take back some control by setting personal and professional goals. Start the new year with a fresh set of objectives. Reflecting on where you were this time last year is a great way to see how far you’ve come. Do you recognise yourself now? Has your business changed? Have you changed?
Studies show that people who set goals are 10 times more likely to succeed. Setting goals, consistently executing and measuring your progress keeps you accountable. And if you wobble, this framework will help you to get back on track.
What are some non-negotiable goals that you work towards each year? What are your BHAG’s (big hairy audacious goals) so big they may seem ridiculous! Include everything you’d like to achieve, no matter how big or small, it’s all important.
Here are 3 popular areas for goal setting in 2021:
Financial Goals
For your Business – Be specific with your goals. Write them down and commit to them as an individual or as a team. How will you measure these goals? Using a SWOT analysis will help you to realistically see your business where it is now.
Are you launching new products into the market in 2021? How can your business help your customers and what could that look like in revenue terms? Maybe in 2020 you’ve realised a new product or service revenue stream, what does that look like?
Being crystal clear around the numbers of your business is crucial for success. Whatever kind of business you are in, knowing your pipeline and conversion rates will allow you to be realistic about your revenue goals.
For You – Again, be specific. Write your goals down. Set up direct debits. Draw up a budget and stick to it. There is a huge amount of satisfaction to be gained from achieving personal financial goals, no matter how big or small.
Some simple questions to ask yourself could be: Are you saving enough and how often? Where can you trim your spending to increase your savings plan? Are you on track to clearing any personal debts like credit cards? If you’re saving for a large milestone purchase, how long will it take to reach your goal?
Health and Fitness
During 2020 it seems two clear sides have emerged – those who are ripped, and those who aren’t! Making better choices around the food we eat is a common goal, as is increasing (or beginning) an exercise routine. Cutting out processed food, walking around the block or competing in a triathlon are all worthy goals. Keeping a daily food and exercise diary can help to get you motivated and keep you focussed. Healthy life choices have a positive impact on those around you, which is another great motivator. And, everyone needs to drink more water, so be sure to put that on your list!
Self Care Goals
Self-care may just be the most important of all the goals you set in 2021. What self-care means to you is very different to what it means to someone else. It’s important to remember to be guided by what you define as self-care, not anyone else. Start by setting aside regular time slots in your diary specifically for this. For example, it could be soaking in a hot bath, playing golf, reading, listening to music, or limiting social media use. Whatever it may be, make sure these are a high priority. Encourage others around you to do the same. There is no such thing as too much self-care.
The right mindset around goal setting is vital. When setting goals to bring your vision to life – be realistic, commit to being consistent in executing them and make sure to regularly track your progress. Remember, you can adapt and change your goals if they’re not working or need some tweaking. One thing 2020 has taught us is to be flexible!
And, don’t forget to celebrate your wins along the way!
