Setting and achieving goals is a process that can help you measure success and stay on track, no matter what you’re working towards. But there are a few myths about goal setting that can trip people up.

Myth: You need to have big, hairy, audacious goals (BHAGs)

Making goals is a great way to stay motivated and on track, but it's important to make sure that your goals are realistic and achievable. Otherwise, you run the risk of becoming overwhelmed and discouraged, which can lead to procrastination.

I learned this lesson the hard way when I set a goal to make $100,000 in 2017. I got so caught up in the enormity of the goal that I barely made $2,000. It was a frustrating and disheartening experience, and it made me realize that sometimes it's better to focus on smaller, more manageable goals.

Myth: You need to share your goals with others

What you share with others, especially when it comes to your goals, can have a profound impact on your likelihood of achieving them. I carefully select one or two people to confide in and who I know will support my dreams rather than judge or doubt them. This creates an environment of positive reinforcement that helps me to stay motivated and focused on my goals.

Myth: Your goals should be SMART

Yes, one popular framework for goal setting is the SMART method. SMART stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, Time-bound. However, this method is not the only way to set goals.

In fact, there are hundreds of different ways to frame goals.

I've tested many different goal-setting frameworks and I even created my own. Find what works for you. The important thing is that you have a system in place that helps you track and achieve your goals.

Myth: You can't change them once they're set.

If you're not consistently checking and adjusting your goals they won't stay relevant and you'll never reach them. It's important to revisit your goals often and see if they're still inspiring you. If they're not, it's time to change them.

Myth: Achieving them must be difficult.

Achieving goals can be as easy or as difficult as you make it. Personally, I make things as easy as possible to succeed. Why would you make something difficult when the easy option is well... easier!

If you take the time to set yourself up for success and put in the work required, achieving your goals can be easy. So don't let anyone tell you that it must be difficult, because it doesn't have to be.

Don’t let any of these myths keep you from setting and achieving your goals. Although popular opinion may hold otherwise, there are many benefits to goal setting. Goal setting can help you to better focus your efforts, identify areas of improvement, and track your progress over time. In a professional context, goal setting can also help you to develop a growth mindset and improve your chances of success. If you are interested in learning more about goal setting and you want a straightforward, practical method for setting and achieving goals check out my goal-setting workshop.