Create a Roadmap for Achieving Your Goals

Whether it’s Google Maps on your phone, or a good old-fashioned atlas, it’s difficult to get anywhere you want to go without a map. The same principle holds true for accomplishing majors goals in life.

We all have things that we want to do, but far fewer people have a plan for actually making them happen. Here’s how to create a roadmap that you can follow to your final goal destination!

Set the Goal

A map is only good if it leads to a specific place. Use that philosophy to refine your goals into concrete things that you can attain.

For example, you might have an abstract goal to lose weight, but what does that really mean? Do you want to lose ten pounds, 30 pounds, 100 pounds? You’ll need to decide what a realistic first goal is before you can figure out how to get there.

The most effective goals follow the SMART protocol, which I’ve talked about previously. Basically, don’t bite off more than you can chew with the size of your goal or the amount of time you’re setting to complete it. Setting SMART goals will create a pathway for success in the long run.

Draw the Map

Once you’ve identified your SMART goal, it’s time to create the plan for what you are going to do to achieve it. You’ll need to write this plan down, either on paper or electronically, so you can effectively track your progress.

There are plenty of apps and journals out there specifically for goal tracking and planning. Explore the options and choose the one that will work best for you. The basic idea is the same no matter what platform you use — breaking down large goals into smaller milestones that add up to the big picture in the end.

Whatever you choose, commit to reviewing it at least a few times per week, or even once per day if you have the time. Mark the milestones as they are completed and enjoy the confidence boost that comes from doing so.

If you hit a snag, make note of that too so you can avoid making the same mistake again in the future.

Keep an eye on your roadmap and you’ll be at your final destination in no time!