By Lorin Beller Blake

It’s that time of year, goal-setting time. Let’s start by addressing why goal setting is so important:

1. Goal setting builds self-confidence! This is a big reason why we should set goals and it’s also the excuse as why people don’t like to set goals.

2. Goal setting gives us a sense of accomplishment. You know when you put a goal on the table, and meet it…it feels so good.

3. Goal setting perpetuates more activity. When we set a goal and accomplish it, oftentimes it generates energy to do more.

4. Goal setting moves us. Setting and achieving goals keeps us moving.

5. Goal setting makes us happy. Research has shown that those with written goals are happier.

6. Goal setting creates success, one step at a time. Most of us have a vision, and by writing down your goals and working toward them, you make that vision a reality!

7. Goal setting creates a BUZZ! Everyone wants to work with the "hot, buzzing" company in town, right?

I’ve been setting goals for my business and myself for more than 20 years. In 2002, I started doing it in a unique and powerful way. What I’ve learned by doing this each year and watching others do it, is that the process itself is inspiring. The stories at the end of each year are magical.

Have I convinced you that this year it’s time to write down your goals or do it in a different, more powerful way? I hope so! Here are some steps to make it easier:

Step 1: Be sure your vision is written.

Step 2: Look at your life in categories, but the whole picture of your life. At Big Fish Nation, we divide our lives into eight categories: Personal/Spiritual Growth, Health, Business/Career, Money, Significant other, Family and Friends, Recreation, and Environment.

Step 3: Be sure your goals are measurable.

Step 4: Set intentions for each of the eight areas noted above. Intentions are the way we need to be to make that goal happen.

Step 5: Be sure your goals are written down.

If you’d like to learn more about the Big Fish goal setting system, email me for more information at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Happy goal setting!