1. Make a commitment
Verbally saying that you are going to accomplish something and doing it are two different things.  A commitment backed up with action is the sure way to start accomplishing your goals.  A good way to hold yourself accountable is to work with a life or success coach that can partner with you in staying on course.

2. Take a goal setting seminar or workshop
Consider taking a goal setting class or workshop to learn more effective techniques and develop your skills in goal setting.

3. Develop a system
Knowing how you will accomplish your goal is most important.  You must develop a system consisting of the time frame that you would like to accomplish the goal by; identifying any challenges that might prevent you from accomplishing your goal and finding solutions to rid them; identifying the tasks necessary to see it through.

4. Create a Mini-Vision Board
Sometimes having something visual to look at can provide us with the motivation to take action.  Try making your own mini-vision board.  Cut out pictures from magazines that represent accomplishing your goal.  Using a sheet of 8×11 card stock paper (leave about a 2 inch space at the top), glue your pictures in a collage fashion.  At the top of your vision board, write your goal and the deadline you will complete it.  You can place your board in a 9×12 picture frame and place it on your night stand or bathroom counter or simply post it on your bathroom mirror, refrigerator or other location where you will see it frequently.

5. Consider forming a Goal Setting Support Group
You might have friends and associates that have been trying to accomplish their goals, but need encouragement and support as well.  Consider hosting informal goal setting discussions bi-weekly or monthly to discuss your goal setting progress.  This is a great way to gain new and fresh ideas and motivation.

About the Writer
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Trina Newby is a Business Consultant, Success Coach and founder of Women About Biz, a business education and social network for women.