This is the fourth part of a five-part series on setting effective goals.
Part One: How to set effective goals
Part Two: How to define your values for effective goal-setting
Part Three: Actually setting your goals

Now that you have your goals written down, it’s time to make a plan!

Divide and Conquer

Break down larger goals into Prioritized Tasks

Divide each goal into smaller, manageable, tasks or steps; specific actions that lead to the achievement of the overall goal. Think of assembling a piece of IKEA furniture; theoretically, a picture of the completed unit would be all you need to put the thing together, but IKEA gives you a list of actions you should take in the order you should take them and what components and tools you will need to accomplish these actions. Create an IKEA-type list for each major goal and you’ll have a road map for achieving that goal.

Get the sequence right

Determine the order for completion of each task. In many cases the order will become self-evident; for example, if you plan to build a canoe, buying a paddle is not the first essential step you need to take. It is worthwhile to spend some time with a pencil and paper to determine what steps are necessary, and in what order they need to be taken.  Write down the sequence and, like Father Christmas, check it twice. Establishing the sequence is crucial.

Give yourself time

Create a realistic schedule for each task, with a specific (and conservative) completion date. An achievable, documented schedule is essential, emphasizing achievable completion dates for each stage. It is very demoralizing to fail to meet a completion date that you have set yourself, but completion ahead of schedule is a big morale booster. So give yourself a fighting chance when setting your schedule.

Set milestones

Milestones are specific checkpoints you identify within a task to measure your progress. They give you early warning of deviations from the schedule and can indicate that you may need to revise the schedule or re-allocate resources.

Make sure you’ve given yourself enough time

Make sure, and doubly sure, that you have assigned conservatively realistic completion dates for every task and milestone, and be prepared to re-assess these should it become necessary.

Allocate adequate resources

Identify what you’ll need to accomplish each task. This includes time, money, skills, special equipment/tools, special expertise, and any other necessary resources. Ensure that you have access to what you need.

Expect the unexpected and deal with it

Identify potential obstacles or challenges you might encounter such as equipment failure, human error, or other external events such as major political/economic/regulatory changes. Prepare plans to respond to such contingencies. 

Seek Support and Accountability

Share your plan with a trustworthy friend,  family member or mentor. Having someone to hold you accountable can increase your chances of success.

Reflect and Revise

Periodically review your goals and plan and reassess your overall objectives. Your priorities and aspirations may evolve, requiring adjustments to your plan. A plan should be a dynamic document that you adapt to your changing circumstances and priorities. Regularly revisit and update your plan to ensure it remains relevant and aligned with your goals.