The Secret to Setting Goals and Achieving Them

January is fast approaching and many people have their goals written out and ready to tackle. If this isn’t you, no worries, read on because I’m going to share with you the best kept secret to setting goals. Plus, my favorite way to make sure you achieve those goals once they’re set!

I know, it’s incredibly hard to keep up with goals when you’re chasing kids around, making meals and snacks, maintaining a side hustle (maybe), and trying to keep up with life in general. But I guarantee this easy method is the most efficient way to hold yourself accountable for the goals you set for yourself….and actually achieve them.

The Chalkboard Method for Setting Goals

If you haven’t heard of the chalkboard method, it’s time to learn! This system isn’t new, but it’s very effective. The chalkboard method is basically a goal setting system that gives you a visual that you see EVERY single day. A visual cue to keep you focused on what you want to accomplish in your home or business life.

If you want a business perspective on the chalkboard method, you should listen to the Podcast “Being Boss”.

Whether you hang your chalkboard (or whiteboard, or whatever visually shows your goals) in your bedroom, home office, or bathroom, you will love the positive effects it has on your life and business. It just needs to be in a place that you see everyday.

Why the Chalkboard Method Works

The chalkboard method is very much like the saying “seeing is believing”. You write out all of your goals, or make photos, and then cross them off or fill them in as you accomplish them. For instance, draw circles for every client you wanted to land in 2017, and each time you get the new client you fill in the circle.

Every time you fill in those circles you have a visual to see how great you’re doing. This is very powerful and empowering! This also gives you valuable insight into how your process for achieving your goals is working or perhaps the tweaks that need to be made to make it better.

Free Chalkboard Method Worksheet

Goal Setting Examples

The best way to set your goals is to think about what you want to accomplish short term and long term. I like to set goals for my week, month, quarter, and year. This helps me to make sure that I am staying on track as I work my way up to the end of the year. I find putting my quarterly goals on the chalkboard is most effective. Weekly and monthly goals go in my planner.

Here are some great examples of goals to get you thinking:

• I will have 10 new clients by the end of first quarter. (put 10 boxes or circles on your chalkboard and fill them in as you garner the new client)
• I will read 3 parenting books by the end of March (place three lines and write the name of the book when you finish)
• I will clean out the pantry, hall closet, and entry way closets by June 15 (put 3 boxes or circles on your board and fill them in as you accomplish the task)
• I will gain 500 new social media followers by August (change the tally when you add the new followers)
• I will launch an eBook by the end of Q2 (place this goal on the chalkboard and make sure your weekly and monthly goals support this big goal)
• I will organize the family filing system by December 1 (write this goal out and cross it off when finished)
• I will save $1000 for our family vacation by June 15 (write this goal and track the progress as you go)

Most importantly, the goals need to be personal and meaningful to you.

TIP: Notice the “I will” at the beginning of the sentences and the date it will be done? These are key to creating a mindset that crushes your goals 🙂

Goal Setting and Accountability

Ok, lets talk accountability. The chalkboard method is great for keeping you accountable, and is even better for giving you a boost of confidence to show the amazing things you’ve accomplished. Once you set your goals and write them in a visual place where you see them, you’ll be amazed how easy it is to “watch the magic happen” , and make your dreams come true.

As I mentioned, having a visual, such as the chalkboard method, immensely helps me actually achieve the goals I set for myself. It keeps me focused and on track. There is no way I’d be able to mange both my businesses with the success I’ve had and my family without it!

It’s not enough to understand the concept of the chalkboard. You have to actually do it!

You can do anything and everything you dream of by setting goals – I believe that wholeheartedly. You can make your dreams a reality, and live the life that you’ve always imagined. Dream big, set your goals, and then let the magic happen!

Let me know how your chalkboard turns out!