Using the Climb Higher Goal Setting Template

1)  Select the 3-5 areas in your life that you would most like to improve.  Prioritize them with the most important being labeled as #1.

2)  Print the template.  I suggest you print 1 page per month for the length of your goal.  In the first column, labeled Goal, write 1 goal per row.
Make sure that your goal is specific, realistic but challenging, measurable and time -limited.  It is best to write this goal as an affirmation in the present tense.  Example: I have lost 10 pounds.

3) Decide on the target date for reaching your goal.   Write the specific date in column G, Goal Date.  Make it as specific as possible.  For instance if your goal is 1 year, write in the numerical date, example: 12/31/08.  

4) Now think about who or what is available, or could be asked or obtained, to help you reach this goal.  Write down all of the resources you can imagine.  Your power to obtain goals multiplies by using resources.  Don't hesitate to ask people, most people enjoy helping others to reach their goals.  The worst that can happen is they say no, and then you are no further off then if you hadn't asked at all.  

5) What are a few actions you could take within the next 24 hours towards your goal?  Remember to make your action steps small enough that you will do them.  Most action steps may make you slightly uncomfortable and that is okay and to be expected.  Do them anyways - you will gain confidence as you proceed.  Doing some action steps immediately after setting the goal gets you off to a powerful start, provides momentum for more actions, and solidifies your intent to reach your goal.

6)  Now choose some small action steps you can take towards your goal at regular intervals.  I recommend that you have at least 1 action step per week, usually no more than 3 so that you don't get overwhelmed.  Write the specific actions in the columns.  Check them off when you have completed them.  

7) What is a milestone towards your goal?  This is something that is measurable.  For our sample goal of losing 10 lbs. it could be "have lost 2 libs".  Or it could be "I excecise 3 hours a week, every week."

8) Consider setting a reward when you reach milestones and your final goal.  The best rewards are often "natural rewards" that occur as a consequence of your milestone/goal.
Example, "my pants fit more comfortably", "I have more energy", "I feel empowered to lose the rest".  Other reward could include anything that you enjoy that is healthy for you.  
Perhaps going someplace special for your walk, eating an exotic fruit, buying a CD you desire, etc...  

9) Continue working towards your goal in this manner for the specified timeframe.  

Tips for Working Smarter, Not Harder

1)    Know which  products/services profit you the most for your time and money?
Brainstorm how you could devote more of your time to these items.  Set a goal to increase the volume of your most profitable services, while not increasing your work hours.

2)    Set regular work hours.  You are not serving anyone when you work all the time.
You actually become less efficient and other important things in your life suffer.  As human beings we do best with regular recharging periods for our bodies and our brains. 

3)    Determine your most energetic times of the day and week.  Use them wisely.

4)    Make a list of energy drainers.  Set a goal to eliminate 1-5 a week.

5)    Is there work you keep putting off or do not do well that you could hire someone to do?  If so, hire someone.  Use your time for using your most profitable skills.