Mindfulness in goal setting is so important because all we do in our lives has two formations. First, there is the one in our mind. We think, then imagine, then plan each action we take. We do not plan to engage in healthy, productive behaviors and then actually engage in unhealthy, unproductive behaviors. What we plan is what we get. It is very important to keep this fact in mind.
Second, there are actions. These follow the formation in our mind. And the actions will only happen the way they happened in our mind. So, the more mindful and planful our mind formation is, the more on target our actions will be. You must know in your heart and mind what you wish to accomplish before you act.
It is important in goal setting to start with the end in mind. First decide what the final product should look like. Where do you want to be in a year or two years? Write these goals down. Make sure you include goals for all aspects of your life, including career, family, friends, leisure, spirituality, and community service. Then write down the reasons for each of these goals. Be very honest with yourself here. This can give you valuable information about yourself and these reasons will be your motivation to keep going during difficult times. Some goals are very challenging to meet and will need very strong “rewards” to drive you toward them. And in the career area, hope that the word “love” appears as one of the reasons. Money alone will probably not keep you going without paying too high a price in another area. Remember that our true “calling” is where our greatest love meets the world’s greatest need.
Walk The Talk Living 