Goal Setting Strategies for the Scarlett O’Hara’s of the World

I often hear myself quoting Scarlett O’Hara from the movie Gone with the Wind, “Well, tomorrow is another day.” Or, “I don’t want to think about that today, I’ll deal with that tomorrow.” Tomorrow, tomorrow, tomorrow…..but tomorrow never comes.

*Side note: Anyone seen signs at a bar that say “Free beer tomorrow?” Again, tomorrow never comes!

For those of us who put off goals that seem too difficult or require some tough decisions, there is hope. It’s taken me quite a while, years really, to become proficient at setting goals that I’ll actually accomplish, even “big, life changing” goals that take a lot of gumption. The secret is very simple: break down the “big” goal into smaller, more manageable steps, with a big push in the beginning.

I personally like the idea of SMART goals or specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, and timely achievements. Let’s look at a goal that might seem out of reach to some: saving $5,000 for the year. That number might look big and scary, almost too scary to even tackle. But, by taking a monumental goal, like saving $5,000 this year, and turning it into something attainable by breaking it down into smaller chunks, it’s not as daunting. The smaller steps might look a little like this:

1. I’ll save $130 each week for the first three months, or first quarter, of the year. – This is specific and realistic and also sets up a due date of March 31st. It’s also placing more effort upfront when you’re more motivated.
2. I’ll automate my savings amounts so that I don’t have to think about it. – By automating the savings, there’s less of a chance of forgetting and falling behind.
3. Any windfall – birthday gift, cash back reward, etc. – will be applied toward the savings goal. – Boosting the goal whenever possible makes it easier to attain as the year progresses because you don’t have to work as hard.
4. The second quarter goal will be saving $110 each week. – The amount is reduced since the first quarter was the big push toward the overall goal.
5. Set a new weekly limit for each new quarter that is a little less than the previous quarter making the goal easier to attain as the year progresses.

It’s human nature to start off strong in the beginning and lose steam as the year progresses. This plan takes that into account, but it also sets up the idea that each quarter is a fresh, new start. Just as the final quarter is beginning, the weekly savings amount will be under $100 which is less stressful around the holidays, but keeps the momentum going. No more pushing back starting on a goal that seems too great ’till tomorrow. Start today!

How do you complete your goals in a timely manner? Do your yearly resolutions fall into oblivion or do you accomplish them?