Studies show that if your goals and dreams have many if not all these criterion, they are more likely to be accomplished and become real.

1. Your goals need to be measurable. It’s not enough to say, “I will write more.” It’s much better if you can state, “I will write for three hours Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.” Specifics, you can track and see how you are progressing.
2. Make your goals attainable. I’m not saying, dream small, because your dreams need to be challenging, but don’t make them so far out of your reach that you are left defeated and dismayed. If your ultimate goal is to buy a house in the coming year, but you have no real savings, pull back and adjust your time frame or get a second job. Another option is to land on a similar dream that is just as fulfilling…maybe a more spacious apartment or an apartment with a deck?
3. Do you! Chase your dreams, not your mother’s, or your spouse's.
4. Chunk down. Break large goals down to bite-size pieces and steps, accompanied by a specific date. Large goals can seem awesome and impenetrable, leaving you paralyzed and anxiety ridden. Take the time to make large goals into step-by-step actions, with dates, so you can track how you are progressing.
5. Along the same lines, as #1 and #4, goals need to be concrete. What do you mean, “I’m going to take better care of myself.” HOW are you going to do that? Will you exercise more? And how often? Will you quit smoking? Get the patch? Will you cut out desserts? Forever? Abstract goals are not allowed.

Here’s another tip for making your dreams real. Satisfying goals tend to be the ones that feed the soul. Don’t get me wrong, making more money and buying a boat can be pretty fulfilling, but don’t forget to focus quality time on giving to your community, attaining good health, and building satisfying relationships.

If you would like to use this article in your newsletter or blog please feel free to do as long as you include my credit information: Written by Sandra A. Daley, lifestyle and career coach, www.sandradaley.com

If you want to make your dreams real inquire about Dream It! Plan It. Claim It™, an extra-preneurial workshop for women. Contact Sandra at: info@sandradaley.com. If you liked this article, you may also enjoy “New Ways of Doing Things”

Thanks for taking the time to read my articles. I’m looking forward to sharing my passions with the world!

“Keep your dreams alive. Understand to achieve anything requires faith and belief in yourself, vision, hard work, determination, and dedication. Remember all things are possible for those who believe.” Gail Devers