Are You Setting Realistic Targets?

Suggested Video.
If you want to achieve your goals, don't focus on them.
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​It could be argued that the 'goals' referred to in the video differ from targets.  For my purposes here they should be taken as having the same meaning.

The point is that setting goals for things we have no control over is unrealistic and our behaviour(s) is something we can control.
'Focus on behaviours that are within your control - today tomorrow next week.'
Reggie Rivers; broadcaster, motivational speaker and author was was a NFL running back for the Denver Broncos. and two-time Broncos NFL Man of the Year.
​Wellness.
  • Stay centred and focus on things you can control:  Your mind, attitudes and behaviours.
  • Be patient:  If it all went wrong yesterday, don't give up, focus on today.
  • Use your years of experience wisely:  Past failure is a part of all future success.
  • Recognise when you are tired and need a break:  We are not machines and realistic targets don't need us to work to exhaustion. 
  • BE HAPPY:  Realistic targets are best reached with good humoured effort and resolve.

What's Next?
Suggested Video.
Wellness.Performance Goals in Business and Sport.​
"Elite training works well in sport and business..."
Professor Mike Bourne & Dr Monica Franco-Santos wrote an article for the Cranford School of Management where they outline a ‘ten step process’ for target setting. This is a fairly academic approach which I interpret as -
  1. Workout what everyones expectations are.
  2. Convert these expectations into identifiable objectives.
  3. Work out the actions required to achieve each objective.
  4. Decide how to ‘measure’ success for each objective.
  5. Create a reporting system.
  6. Set a timeline and targets.
  7. Write down and agree an ‘Action Plan’ with everyone involved.
There are lot’s of different models offered up for Target Setting. This is one I came across recently. It’s from a reputable institution* and it caught my eye. It’s worth taking a look at the FULL ARTICLE to make sure my precis is accurate.

*Cranfield School of Management, established in 1967, is one of the oldest and most reputable business schools in the UK. Cranfield School of Management. (2017, August 14). In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia.
One thing I strongly agree with in the articles conclusion is that setting targets is as much an art as it is a science.