A Dream and A Goal

A dream and a goal

By: Sylvia Stinson-Perez

“Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world.” -Harriet Tubman

              A new year is upon us. For many this past year was full of challenges. What is your intention for this next year?

“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” – Eleanor Roosevelt

              It is said that goals are dreams with deadlines. Studies have also shown that those who write down their goals are much more likely to achieve them. I am a goal-setter. I also encourage you to be a dreamer and a goal-setter. Each year I take time to review my year to see how I did… and yes, I count those things I accomplished that were not written down. I have yet to achieve all of my goals, but I am convinced goal-setting has kept me from just trivial pursuits and helped me succeed in several areas.

              Does sitting down and writing out your goals seem like a waste of time or an overwhelming mission? I know for many, defining specific goals does not seem to be a valuable activity. So, let us start small and see what happens if you just set three goals for the next few months or the next year. And, you do not need to wait for a new year or a specific date to set goals and plan. I suspect you will realize how much it makes a difference and you will join the ranks of successful goal-setters.

“Success is steady progress towards one’s goals.” Jim Rohn

              Let us start with what areas of goals you might consider. I am going to make it very simple.

• Well-being goals include physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health. This includes relationships!
• Personal development goals include anything that improves your overall skills, knowledge, or abilities in life.
• Professional development goals include all goals related to improvement of skills, knowledge, and abilities, and advancement in your career or life mission.

Create S*M*A*R*T goals.

“The best time to plant a tree was twenty years ago, the second best time is now.” -CHINESE PROVERB

              Here is a break-down of how to set long-term goals, with the steps to achieve them.

• 5 to 10 year goals are those that are your big over-arching goals.
• 3 year goals include those things you will need to have accomplished in 3 years to actually reach that 5 year goal.
• 1 year goals include anything you need to accomplish in the next year to ensure you are on track to meet the 3 year, 5 year and 10 year objectives or outcomes.
• 3 to 6 month goals are the specific actions you must take in the next few months to build the capacity, such as habits, sch schedule of training or education, or other activities required to even start making progress towards those big goals.
• 1 week goals or even daily to do or action lists are powerful tools to get you moving towards your goals. These help you more effectively and efficiently use your time, stay focused, and monitor your progress.

Pursuing your dreams and goals, despite any obstacles, is a testament to your belief in your own potential. Your aspirations are valid, and your journey is an inspiration to others facing similar struggles.

So, stand tall, recognize your worth, and live authentically. As you pursue your dreams and goals.

              For more strategies on goal-setting, and so much more, download my book and workbook at no cost Treading The Waters Of Life: A Guide To Self-Reflection And Action.