Motivation   |   Goal Setting   |   Relaxation

12 Strategies for Setting Goals You Can Actually Achieve and Thus Stay Motivated

12 Strategies for Setting Goals You Can Actually Achieve and Thus Stay Motivated
Photo by Markus Winkler
Setting goals that you can actually achieve is an important part of success. It can help you to stay motivated and focused on your progress and give you something to work towards. Goals can also help you to measure your progress and make sure you are moving in the right direction.

When you set goals that you can actually achieve, you are more likely to stay motivated and on track. When you set unrealistic goals, you feel like you’re failing and it can be difficult to stay motivated and keep trying. By setting goals that are achievable, you are more likely to stay focused on your progress and keep pushing forward towards success.

Setting goals that you can actually achieve can also help you to stay organized and motivated when it comes to achieving them. When you set goals that are too ambitious, you could end up feeling overwhelmed and not sure what to do next. Setting achievable goals allows you to break down the goal into smaller, more manageable tasks that you can work through step-by-step.

By setting goals that you can actually achieve, you can also help to ensure that you are making progress. When you set unrealistic goals, it can be hard to track your progress and measure your success. When you set achievable goals, you can measure your progress, track your success and make adjustments as necessary to ensure that you are getting closer to the goal.

Having achievable goals can also help to boost your confidence. When you set goals that are too ambitious, it can be hard to stay positive and feel like you are making progress. With achievable goals, you can take small steps and celebrate each one as you move closer to your goal.

Finally, setting goals that you can actually achieve can help to keep you focused on the big picture. When you set unrealistic goals, it can be hard to stay motivated and focused on the end goal. With achievable goals, you can stay focused and work towards the big picture without getting overwhelmed.


Whether you’re trying to reach a personal or professional milestone, setting goals can be a great way to help you stay focused and motivated. Goals can also provide you with a sense of accomplishment when you reach them. However, setting goals that are too ambitious or too easy can lead to discouragement and frustration. To ensure that you’re setting realistic goals that you can actually achieve, here are 12 strategies that can help you get there:
1. Start Small
When you’re setting goals, it’s important to start small. Setting a large goal all at once can be overwhelming and can make you feel like you’re never going to be able to reach it. Instead, break the goal down into smaller, more achievable steps. This will make it easier for you to keep track of your progress and stay motivated.
2. Set Measurable Goals
When you’re setting goals, it’s important to make sure that they’re measurable. That way, you’ll know when you’ve achieved them and can celebrate your success. For example, if your goal is to get in shape, set a goal of running a 5K instead of just “getting in shape.”
3. Make a Plan
Once you’ve set your goals, it’s important to make a plan for how you will reach them. Make a list of all the steps you need to take in order to reach your goal and set deadlines for each step. This will help you stay on track and make sure that you’re making progress.
4. Set Reasonable Deadlines
When setting deadlines, it’s important to make sure that they’re reasonable. Setting deadlines that are too ambitious can be discouraging and can make it seem like you’ll never be able to reach your goal. Instead, set deadlines that are realistic and that you know you can meet.
5. Track Your Progress
It’s important to keep track of your progress as you work towards your goals. Create a system for tracking your progress, such as a spreadsheet or a journal, to help you stay on track and motivated. Seeing the progress you’ve made can also help you stay focused and make you feel accomplished.
6. Hold Yourself Accountable
When you’re trying to reach a goal, it’s important to hold yourself accountable. You can do this by setting reminders, enlisting the help of a friend or mentor, or even setting rewards for meeting your goals. Having someone to hold you accountable can help you stay motivated and on track to reaching your goals.
7. Celebrate Your Successes
It’s important to celebrate your successes, no matter how big or small they may be. Recognizing your accomplishments can help keep you motivated and remind you that you are capable of reaching your goals.
8. Stay Flexible
When it comes to reaching your goals, it’s important to stay flexible. Things don’t always go according to plan and you may have to make adjustments along the way. Don’t be afraid to make changes to your plan if you need to.
9. Don’t Get Discouraged
It’s important to remember that setbacks are a normal part of reaching any goal. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t reach your goal right away. Instead, use your setbacks as an opportunity to learn and grow.
10. Get Support
Sometimes, it can be helpful to have the support of someone else when you’re trying to reach a goal. Ask for help from family, friends, or mentors who can provide you with advice and encouragement.
11. Take Breaks
It’s important to take breaks from working towards your goals. Taking breaks can help you recharge and refocus, and can help you come back to your goal feeling refreshed and motivated.
12. Revisit Your Goals
Finally, it’s important to revisit your goals from time to time. Check in with yourself and make sure that your goals are still relevant and that you’re still on track to reaching them. If not, don’t be afraid to make changes to your plan.

Setting goals that you can actually achieve is an important part of success. It can help you stay motivated and organized, measure your progress and stay focused on the big picture. By setting realistic goals, you can make sure that you are on track to reach your goals and celebrate each success as you move closer to achieving them. By following these 12 strategies, you can make sure that you’re setting realistic goals that you can actually achieve. Doing so can help provide you with a sense of accomplishment and make your goals a reality.
Related Guides