• Finding the right balance between challenge and ability is key to goal setting.goal image by Jose from Fotolia.com
  
  In order to successfully set goals you must be willing to abide by a few important rules. First, make sure that the goal you are setting is realistic and attainable. Making sure the goal you are setting is attainable, yet sufficiently challenging is perhaps the most important aspect of goal setting. It is also important for you to have a clearly defined end date for the completion of your goal. Finally, writing the goal down will help you to stay on track as you pace yourself through the various steps that are involved in meeting the goal.
  
  

Create Realistic Goals

• Make sure goals are challenging yet realistic. A goal that is not realistic will not be attainable; conversely, a goal that is easily attained will not help you make meaningful milestones. One way to make sure a goal is realistic is by making sure you can define it clearly. As you set the goal describe the steps that are necessary to ensure its completion in specific detail, make a note of what you will consider a successful completion of the goal and set up a reasonable timeline to guide you along the way.
  
  

Set a Completion Date

• Goals are ineffective without completion dates. A completion date allows you to put a limit on the time you can spend working towards a goal, a move that helps to increase the likelihood of your achieving success. It is important that the completion date you set is realistic and takes into consideration minor disturbances that could limit the amount of time you have to work towards the goal.
  
  

Write Goals Down

• Another important rule for goal setting is that you write down the goal as well as the interim and final deadlines you have set for its completion. Having a visual reminder of the goal will help keep you motivated about the goal. It will also help you to quickly identify any missteps, obstacles or unplanned occurrences that you need to keep in mind on your way to accomplishing your goal.