12 inspiring tips for accomplishing big goals

Here are my 12 top tips for making them happen:

1. Start with a grounded possibility.

This isn’t intended to be a downer, just a reality check. Be open to possibilities and achievement, but make sure you have access—or can get access—to the tools and resources required. This sets you up for success.

2. Give yourself a realistic timeframe.

Among the most important resources is time. If you have two weeks, you can aim to lose five pounds, not 100. Assessing an appropriate timeframe can help guide progress and make sure the goal isn’t too overwhelming.

3. Write down, and commit to, the goal.

Once you set the goal, own it. Put it in writing and put it in a place where you’ll see it regularly: your date book, bathroom mirror, or computer screen, for instance.

4. Use affirmations.

Tell yourself you can do this. Use strong, optimistic language. Support yourself and cheer yourself on.

5. Break the big goal into mini-goals.

My next goal for this half-marathon is not the 13-plus miles of the actual race. It’s five miles. That’s the goal I am focused on. I need to be able to run just two more miles at one stretch to meet that goal.