Why Goal Setting Matters

Whether in your work or personal life, it can be helpful to set goals. Goal setting allows you to track progress and feel a sense of accomplishment when you crush them. Whether your goal is long or short term, we’ve broken down a few reasons why goal setting works and how you can track the other benefits.

1. Focus. Goal setting can trigger certain behaviors. Having clear goals focuses your attention and channels your energy toward action. This sense of direction lets your mind focus on a target instead of working aimlessly around something.  

2. Progress. Goals allow you to measure and track your progress. Typically, something that is measurable is easier to act upon and creates momentum to continue moving you toward accomplishing your goal. You know that feeling when you're in the flow? That's momentum at work and it's an optimal state of mental performance.  

3. Accountability. When you have your goal in mind, you are more likely to steer clear of distractions and stay focused on where you're heading. Your focus remains tuned in to your goal and allows you to stay locked in and avoid shifting and changing based on challenges put in your path.   

4. Motivation. Goals can help you overcome procrastination. If you’re working on a long-term goal, and are having a hard time staying motivated, break your goal up into “bite-size” pieces so their more attainable. You are still working toward the end result, just taking a more step-by-step approach to get there. To keep yourself motivated, no matter what size your goal is, do things that pump you up: put on a fun playlist as you’re working or get up and walk for five minutes if you need a quick break.  By making a goal, you're giving yourself an endpoint to get excited about.  

5. Achievement. The process of setting goals encourages you to identify what's important to you and why. The action of pursuing your goals can inspire you to explore the edges of your comfort zone and boost creativity, among many other benefits. Once you complete your goal, celebrate it! No matter how large or small, an achievement is worth celebrating!   

Remember, goals are tools to harness your energy in positive directions. They can connect you to your deeper self and help you live your power.

Here are some ways to start setting goals: 

• Create a vision board 

• Write a bucket list 

• Keep a to do list or journal  

• Tell a friend 

• Set a goal to expand your yoga practice by explore yoga challenges, meditations and more