Start Small

• Break large goals into small, manageable goals that are tangible and realistic. You are more likely to set yourself up for failure if you start with large, overwhelming goals. A large goal can easily dissuade you if you are not seeing progress. A series of small, attainable goals can help you achieve a larger goal. If your overall goal is to lose 30 pounds, set small goals to lose five pounds each month. Smaller goals are less overwhelming and more easily achieved. Achieving small goals will help motivate you to achieve your bigger goals.
  
  

Make a Plan

• Outline a list of steps and deadlines you can use to achieve your goals. Formulating a plan to achieve your goals will give you an actionable game plan to work off of. Research methods that can be used to achieve your goal. If your goal is to raise your grade-point average, you may choose to retake courses you performed poorly in, join a study group or hire a tutor. Choose one or a combination of methods to formulate your plan to achieve your goal. Deadlines will also help you reach your goal in a timely manner. Write down your plan so you can refer to it and use it as a reminder. Follow your plan to make progress toward achieving your goal.
  
  

Track and Review Progress

• Keep a written log of your progress to keep on track. Write down the achievements you have made in progressing toward your goal. By keeping track of your accomplishments, you will see the progress you are making toward your goal and feel motivated that you can reach it. If you are not making progress, write this down, too. By keeping a log of any regressions or plateaus toward your goal, you can hold yourself accountable. If you do not write down your lack of progress, you will be more likely to overlook your procrastination.
  
  Review your progress log to determine which areas you are excelling in and where your obstacles lie. You may need to adjust your plan in a manner that will make you more likely to achieve your goal. Modifying your plan of attack is OK as long as it helps you achieve your goal. Modifying your plan to give you more time to procrastinate, however, is not productive. Any alterations you make to your plan to reach your goals should be beneficial to achieving your goals in a timely manner.