Feeling Aspirational? Here's How To Turn Those Dreams Into Reality

There’s nothing quite like the sense of accomplishment you experience when you achieve an aspirational goal. Last year, I set a goal to be more physically active and decided to join a “learn to run” program in my local community — and I felt an incredible sense of achievement when I did just that.

What does aspirational mean? Aspirational means having aspirations to achieve success — and here are five steps to help you turn your aspirational goals into reality.

Goal setting requires thoughtful planning and consideration. Carve out some time to consider your inspiration, values and what you want to achieve. Perhaps you want to develop your personal brand or take your career to a new level. Maybe you want to hone your social media presence, learn about a new market segment or build new relationships with customers. Whatever your goals are, take the time to develop a clear vision of what you want.

Achieving your aspirational goals will take time and effort. It is important to consider the kinds of adjustments you will need to make as you work towards your aspiration. Know how much achieving your goals will cost you. For example, if your goal is to write a book while you’re working a full-time job, you will likely have to give up your free nights and weekends to get it done. Are you willing to give up such a large percent of time? There is nothing more discouraging than failing to achieve a personal goal because you weren’t willing to pay the price of committing to achieve it.

It has been said that goals that are never written down are just wishes. Written goals will give you clarity of vision and a sense of purpose. Be specific when you write down your goals. Prioritize your goals and include dates and sub-goals to measure achievement over time.

Make it a habit to review your goals on a regular basis. Regular exposure to your written goals will give you a long-term perspective and the motivation to achieve. Additionally, it will afford you the opportunity to revise your goals should your circumstances change.

In everyday life, it will be easy to lose sight of your goals if you do not intentionally stay on course. One good way to not lose sight of your goals is to recruit an accountability partner who is invested in your well-being. Share your goals with your partner (or people!) and commit to reviewing your goals quarterly. At each review, honestly assess how you’re doing. What worked? Where did you fall short? Do you need to reassess your priorities? Were you true to your ethic code? An accountability partner will encourage you to keep your eye on the prize.

When you achieve an aspirational goal, remember to celebrate and enjoy the satisfaction of your accomplishment. Achieving goals will motivate you and give you the confidence to achieve your best.

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Ellie Nieves, JD, MBA, develops webinars, seminars, and coaching programs to help women leaders to show up, speak up, and step up in their careers and personal lives. She is also the host of the Leadership Strategies for Women Podcast where she shares success tips to help women achieve more both personally and professionally. To learn more, go to www.EllieNieves.com.