Many people start the year with a written list of things they
intend to accomplish, yet by year's end these goals have either
been forgotten or left by the wayside, ready to be recycled for the
coming year.  To achieve your goals, it helps to have a plan, as
goals rarely happen on their own.
 
Here are four simple steps to create a plan to reach your goals.
 
1. Start by writing one of your goals, along with its due date, on
a sheet of paper.
 
2. Brainstorm a list of specific activities you can do now that
will help you achieve this goal.  Whether it's increase sales, lose
10 pounds, climb Mt. Everest, or find a job, what activities will
move you that much closer to achieving your goal?  Quickly write
down as many ideas as you can without censoring or inhibiting your
response.  Try for quantity and speed as this will help keep your
inner critic at bay.

3. From this list, select the most effective activities for you to
do now.
 
4. Schedule or block out time to do the most effective activities
you identified.  Take time to plan your day each and every day.
This will increase the likelihood of you accomplishing your goals.
 
Repeat these 4 simple steps for each of your goals.  Be consistent
with scheduling your time and keeping to your plan.  A daily/weekly
plan, in writing, is one of the most effective tools you can have
and will increase the likelihood of you reaching your goals.  It's
the antidote to both procrastination (oh, I'll get there someday)
and despair (I'll never get there) and will keep you focused on
your goals throughout the year.
 
With a little effective planning and some creative time management,
you can look back on 2010 with pride at accomplishing each of your
goals.