Setting Your Goals

If you're reading this blog, it's probably because you want some pointers on using marketing to build your business. But sometimes it's good to take a step back and look at the bigger picture.

Today, give some thought to why you're really in business and what you really want.


What was your original goal?
If you can't remember, now is a great time to write down your goals so you can refer back to them later. It's amazing how our goals slide over time and how easy it is to forget what it was we really set out to do in the first place.

Undergoing metamorphosis. Photo: Vincent Teeuwen via Flickr.

Did you want to help people?
Is helping people what you expected it to be? How much time do you spend helping and how much do you spend doing other things? If you are burnt out with compassion fatigue, think about investing in yourself for a change- by taking a class, upgrading your computer, or hiring some help.

Did you want to make a lot of money?
Is bringing home the bacon filling your spiritual bank account, too? Think about things you want to do besides making lots of money and set some additional goals.

Did you want to be in charge of your own time?
The promise of freedom attracts many people to freelancing and independent businesses. But if your work has taken over your life, it's time to take control back from your customers and clients.

Did you want to do what you love for a living?
Is turning your hobby into your living all you wanted? Are you still enjoying your work or do you feel overwhelmed? Think about ways you can make more time to be creative and spend less time on administrative and financial matters.

How does all of this connect to your other life goals?
Whether it's spending more time with your kids, enjoying your retirement, or going back to school, it's important to make sure your business goals and life goals don't get lost in the shuffle of your daily life.

How do you make sure you focus on what's important? Please share in the comments. One of my goals this year is to spend more time interacting with readers like you.