The vital art of setting business goals (from a recovered cynic)

This is embarrassing but… Back when I was running my first business, I didn’t fully understand the purpose of goals.

I was too busy serving my customers, planning next month’s activities, getting my marketing done and looking after my team to think about something as abstract as goal-setting.

I wish someone had explained to me how…

🎯 Having goals can give you a sense of direction that cuts through the chaos

🔄 Business goals that align with your personal goals help create a sustainable business that fits your lifestyle, allowing you to run your business instead of your business running you!

📈 BIG goals can be overwhelming, but SMALL goals can make you feel like you’re making progress

🗺️ If you don’t have a plan for how you’re going to reach your goals, you never will!

These days, I’m evangelical about the importance of setting goals. For me, the real power of goals are the mindset that they create - offering business owners a sense of direction, motivation and celebration.

If you’re struggling to get started, here are my four top tips on how to set goals that will serve your small business

1.     Set SMART Goals: Ensuring that your goals are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-bound will allow you set helpful parameters around your targets, so that you can increase the likelihood of succeeding.

2.     Stay Accountable: Share your goals with a mentor, fellow business buddy or friend. Committing to goals aloud and to someone else will help you stay on track.

3.     Celebrate Success: Recognise achievements and be sure to celebrate them. Rewarding your efforts will increase your motivation going forward.

4.     Review and adjust your goals on a regular basis: Track and measure your success to help you identify what is and isn’t working. And remember, goals aren’t set in stone, you can change them any time and you should check in with your progress and whether your goals align with your plans regularly. If your goals aren’t driving you in the right direction for you personally or for your business don’t hesitate to make new ones!

 Stay tuned for more marketing tips and insights coming your way soon. Until next time, happy marketing!