Making plans

So, you have your values to guide you, and you have a pretty good idea of the long-range goals.

Now, you need to set mid-range goals that put the "flesh and bones" on each of those goals.

*On a piece of paper write your value statement that relates to the goal.
*Below that write your long-range goal.
*Then write the details of the plan to get there. One line per event. The more detail the better because that will make your daily tasks write themselves.

The keys to effective planning are:
1. Supported by your governing values.
2. Time dimensioned.
3. Clearly and specifically defined.
4. "Owned."
5. Realistic.

There is a certain amount of self-talk involved in living life "on purpose." You need to envision yourself as successful. It's important to see yourself as a person who has control of your life through goals, planning and discipline.

Self-esteem is built through controlling the events in your life, being productive as a result, and thus having even more self-esteem. It's a cycle that spirals upward as you see your goals turn into accomplishments.

Nathaniel Brandon, author of The Psychology of Self-Esteem said: "One of the most important aspects to consider is the relationship of self-esteem to productive work."

To review:
1- Event control (daily tasks)
2- Productivity
3- Self-esteem
4- Back to step 1

The truth is, all of us have many accomplishments behind us. We may not have been great planners, but we accomplished them just the same. Planning and goal setting highlight our progress and encourage even more productive lives.

Just a thought about planning. We sometimes set goals and plan events over which we do not have control. Keep in mind that you control your own behavior. Be sure to check your events and make sure they are something you can control.

Have fun making a detailed list of events. If you can imagine it in enough detail, you can achieve it.