Setting and Achieving Goals

Measuring Progress

The number one resource I personally use for motivation and reaching goals. It's the little things you do that can reap you tons of beneftis along with a grand sense of accomplishment. Check out Everything Counts!

For effective results when setting and achieving goals, you must be able to measure progress. This is why setting smart goals is so important. It's another building block for establishing the critical steps for goal achievement. Followng are tips to help you effectively measure your progress.

Keep a portable version of your goals handy: I recommend either 5x7 index cards, downloading your goals to a mobile device, or having your goals easily accessible via your computer. Why? The more you review your goals the more committed you become and the more familiar you become with the measurable items. Since progress is the key not only for success, but motivation as well, this step is a must.
Reference your goals frequently: Review them each morning. Set at least one or two tasks you can complete towards goal achievement each day. You can use following free forms to records daily goals or progress: Daily 'To Do' List | 90 Day Planning and Daily Update Form
Keep a Journal: This is a great way to record steps taken to overcome obstacles, progress, and successes. A journal provides a written account that you can always refer back to. If you want a free online tool try joeslogbook.com.
Keep a results log: You simply write down your current state and plot progress as you go along. You can use something as simple as a spiral notebook and pen.
Start and keep an accomplishment folder, book, or log: If you want to fuel your motivation, experience a sense of accomplishment, and know you are on the right track, then keep track of your successes. It's the greatest weapon you have. Use it.

If you want to take advantage of one single tool that is geared towards your goal setting and achieving success, take a look at goalsontrack online software. View the visual demonstration to determine if the many cool features are worth a $4 per month investment.

Some of the features are:

View goal status and progress at a glance
Easily prioritize and reprioritize goals
Assign categories for goals
View goals by categories
Show status and progress of active goals
Show vision board on active goals
Print day planner sheet with goals and due tasks
Keep a journal for goals
Show detailed goal progress in area charts

Just remember, it's not only important to know where you are going in life, but it's important to know how you are doing. When you have plans and goals - always measure its effectiveness. It's a vital step for protecting the future you are creating.