Most people you ask want to achieve goals and make personal improvements. However, sometimes even when the desire to do something is strong, plans don’t translate into actions. For a variety of reasons the task is never completed. Other times the task is started and later abandoned. Whether you want to earn a degree, write a book, lose a few pounds or clean out the garage, the key to achieving your goal is a MAP – Motivation, Accountability and Payoff.
Motivation
The first step in the MAP strategy is understanding your motivation. Why is it important to achieve your goal? For example, if you want to earn a degree, your motivation may be a desire to earn more money or to launch a career in the field of your dreams. Motivation isn’t just about wishing something was different. Real motivation is based in an abiding desire with traceable roots. When you identify where the desire comes from, you are a third of the way to achieving your goal.
Accountability
The next step in achieving your goal is a plan for accountability. If understanding your motivation is the why of your plan, setting up accountability is the how. For example, what steps will you need to take to achieve your goal? Write down every task that will be required. Again, using the goal of earning a degree, early steps might include
Researching schools – which schools offer the program that interests you? How do the programs and costs compare? Is the program offered at a time that fits your schedule?
Calculating costs – what types of financial aid will be available to you? If you must secure a loan, how will you reasonably manage loan repayment?
Completing the application – when is the application due? Who will you ask for references? Who will you ask to review your essay if one is required?
Next, use your steps to establish a timeline for achieving your goal. Choose “do by” dates that challenge you to move regularly toward achieving your goal, but that are also realistic.
Now that you know what you want to do, and by when, you need someone to cheer you on, help you navigate obstacles and deliver consequences if you fail to achieve your goal. The person you choose to hold you accountable should understand your motivation for achieving your goal and demonstrate ability to achieve personal goals. Up the ante by adding consequences for missed weekly or monthly goals. Some goal setters assess cash or task penalties for failure to achieve their goals. For example, if you miss a step or target you pay a daily fine until the step is complete. You can also impose a task. For example, you do the laundry or cook meals for the person holding you accountable until the step is complete.
Payoff
Reward is a powerful motivator for achieving your goal. If motivation is the why of your MAP strategy, payoff is the what. What difference will achieving your goal make? How will completing this goal improve or change your life for the better? What tangible reward do you anticipate with achieving your goal? Identify a payoff you can be passionate about to increase your chances of achieving your goal.
Barbara Gibson - Parenting is a joy and a challenge. Each day I learn something new about myself. I also grow in understanding and appreciation of my own ...
