Leaders set goals. But they often set only one type of objectives, and in doing so they set themselves up for failure. Here are different types of pursuits to set:
Achievement goals
These describe results that you will have when you finish the goal. Examples include: retiring with a million dollars at age 65, earning a promotion by June, increasing sales by 5%. The most major objectives are achievement goals.
Action goals
These describe specific actions that you will take to accomplish achievement goals. Examples include: meet with an investment counselor, attend a workshop to learn new job skills, contact all of the prospects in the database.
Layered goals
These specify the same goal with different levels of priority and difficulty.
Rate goals
These specify actions repeatedly done over time. Examples include: Read two books per month, exercise three times per week, or write in a journal every day. Many personal growth activities can be performed as rate goals.
Limit goals
These set boundaries. Examples include: Spend less than $5,000 on new equipment, go to bed before 10 PM each night, take less than 45 minutes for lunch while at work. These help manage priorities.
Exclusion goals
These state things that you will not do. Examples include: Do not watch TV after 8 P.M., do not use a cell phone when with other people, do not eat junk foods. These help you decide in advance which activities you will avoid.
