Ready, Set, Goals

A Global Positioning System (GPS) is a common tool that's used to direct you to your intended location. It guides you to where you want to go. Wouldn't it be nice if you had a GPS to guide you through life, to help you avoid the bumps, wrong turns and rough roads? Think about how a GPS works: you enter a destination and it gives you directions. It's possible to program your life's direction just like a GPS. Let's look at the ways a GPS works, and try applying those ways to your own life.

- Know Where You Want to Go. To get to your destination, you must enter an address. In life, you need to decide what you want in order to realize it. Make long-term goals, but focus on one goal at a time. You can only travel to one place at a time. Attempting to accomplish multiple goals is distracting and can lead you down the wrong road.

- Push “GO.” Start down that road. Be willing to take action and do what is necessary to achieve your goals. Don't delay. Take a class, join organizations, meet new people, and make new connections. Move forward.

- Listen to Directions. The GPS is like a professional guide. In most cases, it knows the best route to your location. Listen and learn from people who have reached their goals; perhaps you can avoid some of the rough spots in the road.

- Stay the Course. Follow the directions from the GPS. Don't get waylaid by roadside attractions. In life, stay with your plan so you can reach your goals. Once you're on your way, review your progress regularly to make sure you're on track. Make adjustments as needed.

- Reach Your Destination. Recognize when you have achieved one your goals. Take time to look around and enjoy your success. Be ready to make new, perhaps more ambitious goals to further your success. Remember, there are always new roads to explore.

- Look Back. Review the route you took to arrive at your destination. Was it interesting? Did it get you where you needed to be? Review the path you have taken toward achieving your life goals. Are you satisfied with the outcome? Did you take the right path? What would you have changed? You may need to alter the map to your next destination.

Although it would be nice to have a GPS to guide you through life, it probably won't happe anytime soon. However, you can apply some of the techniques used by a GPS to lead you to your desired destination. Good luck!