Your Most Important Goal

Achieving Your Big Goal: A Framework For Success

Do you have a big goal in your heart?  A goal without a deadline is just a wish.  So, let's choose your biggest goal, set a deadline, and build a plan to achieve it!

Here’s a simple, actionable process to help you achieve your big goal—one step at a time.

1. Identify Your Top 5 Goals

Start by writing down the five most important goals in your life right now. These can be personal, professional, or a mix of both. The key is to focus on what truly matters to you—not what others expect from you.

Ask yourself:

• What do I want to achieve this year?
• What would make me proud to accomplish?
• What aligns with my values and long-term vision?

2. Circle the Most Important Goal

Once you have your top 5 goals, take a moment to reflect. Which one is the most urgent, impactful, or meaningful? Circle it. This is the goal you’ll commit to prioritizing.

By narrowing your focus to one main goal, you’re giving yourself permission to pour your energy into what will make the biggest difference in your life. Remember, you can work on the other goals later—but for now, this is your top priority.

3. Brainstorm 10 Actions You Can Take

Now that you have your big goal, list 10 specific actions you can take to make progress. These actions don’t have to be massive or perfect. They just need to be realistic and within your control.

For example:

• Goal: Run a marathon.
• Actions:
  1. Research marathon training plans.
  2. Buy a quality pair of running shoes.
  3. Schedule a physical to ensure you’re healthy to train.
  4. Sign up for a local marathon.
  5. Map out a training schedule.
  6. Join a running group for motivation.
  7. Focus on proper nutrition and hydration.
  8. Incorporate strength training to avoid injury.
  9. Do a few shorter practice races (e.g., 5K, 10K).
  10. Plan a post-race recovery routine.

Bonus: Add a deadline to each action.

4. Take Action NOW...And Every Day

Here’s where the magic happens: do something every day that moves you closer to your goal. It doesn’t have to be big. Some days, it might be as simple as going for a 20-minute run or prepping a healthy meal. The key is consistency.

Treat your goal like the priority it is. Block out time in your schedule. Say no to distractions. Celebrate small wins along the way.

5. Stay Focused and Flexible

Life is unpredictable, and progress isn’t always linear. You may need to adjust your actions, overcome obstacles, or reframe your approach. That’s okay. The important thing is to stay focused on your big goal and keep moving forward.

One way to stay on track is by regularly revisiting your list of actions. Check off what you’ve accomplished, revise what’s no longer relevant, and add new ideas as needed.

The Power of Prioritization

Achieving your big goal isn’t about doing everything at once—it’s about doing the right things at the right time. By identifying your most important goal, breaking it into actionable steps, and consistently working toward it, you’ll make progress faster than you ever thought possible.

Remember, the journey matters just as much as the destination. So, set your sights high, take it one step at a time, and enjoy the process of turning your dream into reality.

What’s the one big goal you’re ready to tackle? Start today!

Ryan Giles