As you probably already know, when we talk about SMART goals we mean goals that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic and Timely.
But when you’re planning a project it often helps if you set yourself smaller, manageable goals because when you have a series of smaller goals, you know what the next step is that you have to take. And when you know what it is you have to do, you get on and do it without procrastinating.
Knowing the next step is vital for staying positive and calm!
When I complete a mini-goal, I always write on a sticky note what the next step is, so that when I pick up the job again I can see immediately what it is I have to do. If I’m waiting for someone to come back to me with information, I’ll put a note on the document reminding me what I need to do next, when I have that information.
Fear of the unknown is stressful. Knowing what the next step is quashes that fear.
If you’ve never decorated a room before, not knowing where to start is daunting. But, if you spend a few moments thinking about it, you may develop a small plan of action, comprising a series of mini-goals like this:
- Empty the room of all its contents. That’ll make the job easier.
- Strip all the wallpaper off the walls and fill any holes.
- Sand down all the paintwork and do any plastering.
- Wipe everything down.
- Paint the ceiling first, so if paint spills on the old carpet or on the un-papered walls, it doesn’t matter.
- Paint the door, doorframe and skirting boards because emulsion paint can be wiped off woodwork, but gloss paint can’t be wiped off wallpaper.
- Paper the walls.
- Pull up the old carpet.
- Lay the new flooring.
- Return furniture to the newly decorated room.
So, when you have a big project, always break it down into smaller, more manageable goals and your project will become much more achievable.
