In my first blog post about the 12 steps to achieving your goals we discussed the SMART (or S.M.A.R.T.) system of goal setting, which is based on goals being specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and timely. While I agreed this is a very useful way of looking at goals, I believe it misses out on MANY other key factors that you will want to consider if you wish to achieve huge goals.

We also learned that Step 1 to achieving your goals is to focus on the goal that has the most meaning in your life. Did you decide on your huge goal?

Today we will concentrate on Step 2 in goal achievement which is Set a Deadline for your goal.

Think about a time in your life when you had a deadline. Perhaps before leaving for a trip, handing in a school assignment, or completing a project at work? You were likely extremely focused when you had a deadline.

Likewise, it is important to define a deadline or timeframe for achieving your goal. I highly recommend a three-year timeframe for a huge goal. But go with whatever timeframe your instincts tell you to pick.

My audacious goal was to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro, at 19,340 feet, one of the world’s seven peaks and Africa’s tallest mountain. In mid 2003, most people would have dismissed it as a pipe dream, given I could not walk to the end of my driveway.

I then set a very clear timeframe of reaching this goal in 1.5 years, taking the opportunity of a three week school break in January 2005 that my daughter would have to undertake the trek with me, and selecting the best possible time for good weather. Read the rest of this entry »