Hmmm goals for 2016...

There is nothing noble about tip-toeing around pretending you don't have goals and dreams.

We all have ambitions whether we want to openly share our aspirations on not, but to increase your chances of being successful there are a few tips I have picked up that I want to share with you and then I'll share some of my ambitions.

1. Write your goals down. Its scientifically proven that seeing your target written in your own hand writing is a powerful tool. It brings clarity to what you are thinking, and transfers the idea in your head into a physical notion on the page. One small step closer to success. Now put it in a place you often pass daily to be a constant reminder.

Writing down your goal makes success 80% more likely.

2. The difference between an idea and a goal. Not only is a goal tangible and based on real circumstances but a goal is specific and time bound to give a measure of success. For example I could say I want to complete a triathlon in under 2 hours. This is still an idea as it is still relatively undefined, leaving me less likely to achieve it. If I were instead write I want to complete an Olympic distance triathlon in under 2 hours by the end of the 2016 season, that not only gives more drive and focus regarding the event but also gives me a time period to deliver, so I will act to achieve.

3. Break your goal down into smaller steps. By defining smaller steps to success you can focus on small manageable sections to achieve the overall goal. Often the larger goal is too difficult to accomplish in one go so to maintain motivation you will need to have stepping stone achievements to maintain focus.

4. Tell a friend, coach, mentor or family member. Goals are rarely achieved alone. Feed off the ideas and energy of others to maximise your own potential. Goals can be personal so you should feel comfortable exploring all elements of your ambition when you share. But pick a good confidant and you will feel like you can achieve anything.