Going for the Goals
BY LINDA LARSEN

What if you made a "wish list" of 50 things that you would love to do or have if money and time were absolutely no object? Not to say that you would do those things; rather, create a comprehensive list that you could look at on a regular basis that would stimulate your imagination and desire. When it comes time to actually set your goals (like right now!) you will have a great "wish list" to draw from.

Now, let's create some categories. While I am going to give you some suggestions, I encourage you to create your own. Get a large sheet of paper and across the top create the following four categories:

1. Personal (this will include physical, emotional, mental, hobbies, etc.)

2. Professional (income, educational, advancement)

3. Family (relationship building)

4. Spiritual (community contributions, religious, making a difference in the lives of others)

Set your goals. You may make more than one under each category - but no more than three. You don't want to overwhelm yourself] Post this sheet where you can see it daily. Let your creative mind begin to work on the process while you begin to plan your strategies.

Now answer the following questions about each goal you choose:

1. What stands in my way of achieving this goal?

2. What knowledge and information will I need to make this goal a reality?

3. Who and where are my resources to help me with thist (People, books, organizations)

4. What's my plan? What are all the action steps I need to take to move me forward?

5. What is the very first step that I will need to take in order to move me forward?

6. What is the very first step that I will need to take in the next 24 hours?

7. What will be the cost to me in one, 10 and 20 years if I don't take action? What will my life look like and feel like?

8. What will be the payoff to me in one, 10 and 20 years when I do accomplish this goal?What will my life look and feel like?

I know this seems like a lot of work. It does take some time. But remember my favorite quote:   "Successful people are willing to do what unsuccessful people aren't willing to do." And if you feel you lack the motivation, then do the exercise and it will help you create the motivation!

My tape series, 12 Secrets to High Self-Esteem, started on my "wish list." Well, I took it off the "wish list" and put it on my goal sheet in January 1998. Three weeks later, I got a call from a publisher asking me if I would consider creating a new audio program for building high self-esteem.

Normally, publishers do not call you and ask if they can publish your work - unless your name is Stephen King or Jackie Collins. The phone call alone was a miracle!

What you want out of life is probably not just going to fall in your lap. It never has in mine.
A lot of work goes into proving yourself before you are offered an opportunity. Like you, I've had to build my credibility and strengthen my relationships so that I was a logical choice for a project when it became available. I've had to set goals, develop a plan and then work my little fanny off.

But the payoff? Amazing!! I have been able to create a resource that gives people powerful tools to help build their confidence and get the respect that they deserve. I have received wonderful feedback. People tell me how their lives have changed. They report how they are beginning to accomplish their goals and dreams. They tell me they finally feel like they deserve all the good that life has to offer. Now that makes me feel great!!

So, what would you rather have? An OK, so-so life filled with whatever is left over after others get what they want? Or do you want passion, fun, love, joy, great health, financial success and fabulous relationships? Focus on your "wish list." Go for your goals. It's your choice.

@2003 Linda Larsen. All rights reserved. Linda Larsen helps individuals and companies get unstuck, have more fun and be more productive. She is an international speaker, trial consultant and author of the book, True Power, and the best selling audio program, 12 Secrets to High SelfEsteem. She can be reached at www.lindalarsen.com or (941) 927-4700.