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Several years ago I discovered the magic of goal setting. Yes, I said magic, and it is, indeed, magic.

Any motivational coach or self help guru will preach the benefits of goal setting. The reasons are simple. If you give yourself something to strive for, something to put your focus and energy into, you’re more likely to achieve success than if you walk blindly into the future.

A tip that I wanted to share with all of you is the idea of creating a goals book. I did this a few years back and have seen tremendous results.

A goal’s book is simply a journal or scrap book in which you write out detailed descriptions of your main goals. It is important to be as specific as possible with your wording. For instance, instead of saying “to lose weight,” say “I will be 145 pounds, with 8% body fat, by the January 4, 2009.” There is an old saying that vague goals produce vague results.

Once you have a specific goal written down, write down the reasons you must achieve it. Make a list of all the benefits you will see upon the completion of the goal. By writing out all of the benefits you will see upon the completion of the goal you are creating leverage. Leverage is basically the incentive to achieve your goal beyond a mere goal.

Next take some time to right down the obstacles that you will have to overcome to see the achievement of your goal. It is important you spend some time and be honest with yourself. If you know up front exactly what you will be facing on your journey, you can be better prepared for it.

Once you have a list of all of the obstacles, write down the qualities that you possess that will enable you to overcome those obstacles and achieve your desired outcome. It helps to think of some of the goals you have achieved in the past. I usually recommend writing things down like I am persistent when I want something. Last year I taught myself computer skills even though I thought it was impossible. By writing these success stories down on paper you are reminding yourself that you already have what it takes to achieve your goal.

Finally, I recommend filling the goal book with magazine clippings of inspiring images and photos. If your goal is a new car, put a picture of the exact make and model you want into your goal book. I also recommend printing out inspiring quotes or phrases that you can read to motivate you.