What do I Want to Achieve?

I believe in the S.M.A.R.T. approach to goal setting. Goals must be Specific, Measurable, Attainable, and Timely.

Specific: I must choose exactly what I want to achieve. This will help prioritize high-vlaue tasks.

Measurable: Progress towards my goals must be measurable. All efforts must have a "quantifiable" aspect. This will allow for objective assessment.

Attainable and Realistic: All worthwile goals will require me to stretch myself and take myself outside of my comfort zone. However, my goals - though lofty - must be realistic and attainable if given the proper effort.

Timely: Meaningful deadlines will help put positive pressure on me. They will give me a sense of urgency and encourage me to stay on track. For example, I have set July 4th, 2009 as a mid-year milestone. The goal is to spend Independence Day weekend in Key West, Florida where I will strut around shirtless in public for the first time in what will be the biggest party of my life!