Since January is just about halfway over and you might be wavering on those resolutions (if you set any), I thought it might be helpful to discuss setting attainable goals. Whether you set personal or professional goals (or both!), I think it’s important to have a plan in mind to accomplish your goals. Don’t be vague; your motivation likely won’t last if that’s the case.

I find it helpful to put my goals in writing so I have a tangible reminder. Studies back me up on this, so whether you use a Post-It note or a Google document, writing goals down can definitely be helpful. Even just announcing your goals to your friends, family or coworkers can help keep you accountable.

A much-discussed goal-setting plan is the SMART method: Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic and Timely. Each of those concepts should apply to your goals, and it’s so crucial to set objectives and have a plan of execution.

We’ve all heard the example of “losing weight.” To achieve that, you have to plan to incorporate exercise into your life and make healthier food choices, which can begin at the grocery store. Taking smaller steps can help you reach your overall objective.

Setting professional goals is no different. An example goal could be to “increase membership by X percent in X months.”

How could your association achieve that goal? What small steps would help you reach that target? What marketing tactics will you use? word of mouth? e-mail? social media? direct mail? face-to-face at networking events? And who else will be involved?

If you don’t reach your exact goal in the time frame you specified, simply reevaluate and choose a more realistic objective.

If your goal involves training staff members and/or volunteers, try making it fun for everyone involved. Our attention spans are only about 40 to 60 minutes in a classroom-type setting, so don’t be afraid to mix it up occasionally!

Many people in the association blogging community discussed Big Ideas in December, but to successfully implement any of them, you have to have a plan of action. Whether you set new goals to ring in 2010 or are plugging away at existing ones, good luck!

(Photo source: Flickr)