Professional Goals | Suite101.com

Posted by
Joni Rose
May 21, 2006

I am a big believer in goal setting. I routinely make new years resolutions that include a goal or two for my career. For me, setting goals allows me to strive towards something and keep me on track when side-steering temptations come my way. It is easy to let my goals get fuzzy and not set timelines for achievement. I use the SMART goal setting technique in all aspects of my life - professional growth/career, hobbies, finances and personal growth.

I look at my career like a race. The finish line is retirement (although I doubt I ever will retire). I want the race to be exciting and challenging. I want to experience beautiful scenery along my path. I also want to walk some of the race to allow my body a chance to recuperate from the fast pace I must move to be competitive.

Sometimes a hurdle comes my way and I must find a way to jump it. Other times I look for a way to minimize it first before jumping it. I can't walk around it because I'd lose momentum and speed. I'd also lose the satisfaction of tackling the hurdle head-on.

And then, the competition...they want to win the race as much as I do. They will do things to get in my way and thwart my victory. They come in various disguises, so I must be careful not to underestimate intentions.

I need to constantly look at my positives and convince myself that they are worthy of success. I coach myself to be resilient and win though mental and physical conditioning.

When I cross the finish line, I fully expect to look back on the race and not want to change a thing.

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