PUTTING IT INTO PRACTICE

If you follow the SMART principles you can set yourself an achievable list of goals. If you do apply this technique it is sensible to review your goals so that you can identify if you are on target. There is also a tremendous feeling of satisfaction when you can see that you have achieved something. This illustrates the importance of setting SMART objectives. If they are un-SMART they are likely to be more frustrating than motivational. The bigger your ambition , the more focused you need to be. You need to protect yourself by building around you people who will offer ongoing support.

Far too many people are stopped from achieving their ambitions by others' jealousies or insecurities. This is particularly true in partnerships, whether business or personal. This is where it is important to meet with like-minded people, to have a network and a mentor and especially to know yourself. Everyone I have met who has achieved an ambition has hidden depths. It is partly self-belief, but it is also that ability to self-talk, to say to yourself, 'I can do it!'