It’s tough to get somewhere if you don’t know where you’re going. Goals matter. Make 2021 count.

By Phil Kornachuk

Navigation has a lot of parallels to real life. You’re at point A and want to get to point B. In land navigation, there are often physical obstacles between the two points that create a challenge. In life, the challenges might be physical, but they also could be relational, financial, mental or educational. In both scenarios, knowing your destination, checkpoints, potential obstacles and having a “no quit” attitude are key to getting where you want to go.

Where do you want to be in 365 days? I know I want to be a much better father, husband, leader, athlete and man of faith than I am today. Below are some tips on goal setting and accomplishment:

  1. Make SMART goals. Your goals should be: Specific, Measurable, Attainable and Relevant to your purpose and have a Time to be completed by. Saying “I want to get in shape” is a squishy goal that will last about 37 minutes into 2021. Instead, try: “I will run a 3:45 marathon on May 22nd in Fargo.” See the difference?
  2. Set intermediate goals. Eat the elephant one bite at a time. As you look at your 2021 year-end goals, break them down into measurable chunks. Setting progressive milestones that lead to your final goal is a great way to keep track of progress and nail your final objective.
  3. Habits & routine. We are what we repeatedly do. Establish habits that reinforce your ultimate goals. Building habits of excellence that point to your “big” goal is a surefire way to radically transform your performance.

Lastly, persevere. You write your story each day you wake up. Don’t let yesterday’s setbacks drag you down; learn from them. (Don’t allow easy wins to make you cocky, either.) Whatever you do, don’t quit.

Let’s take 2021 to the next level!

Phil Kornachuk is Managing Director, Leadership Development at Allegro Group. He delivers high-impact workshops, retreats and leadership consulting, including overseeing Allegro Group’s LEAD 406 immersive leadership expeditions. Phil retired from the U.S. Army as a Lieutenant Colonel, following a 22-year career in which he led, developed and served in some of the world’s most elite special operations units.