Goal Planning: Advantages and Strategies

By Terje Ellingsen

Before you are going to do something, there is nothing more beneficial in the long term than goal planning. A plan must be carefully thought through and mapped out in advance before the real action takes place. Planning is a recipe for success.

The term 'plan' does not need much of a definition. We all know what it means, but how many of us actually do it before we start a course of action.

When I refer to a plan, I'm not referring to a vague mental picture that we chart out in our minds. I mean a real tangible plan, written or typed on paper. Never underestimate the importance of a written plan. Once we write down something it clears up hazy concepts and opens our minds to options and potential problems we may have overlooked.

A plan is absolutely vital to estimate the time and resources required for a particular course of action. Plans should always have time guidelines. In fact, planning is as fundamental to time management as organizing and prioritizing.

Advantages of Planning

1. Planning provides more clarity about the course of action that we propose to take.

2. Planning better defines the course of action that we propose to undertake.

3. Planning provides an estimate of the time required for a project.

4, Planning gives us a fairly good idea about the expenses involved in the project. In fact a budget is, in itself, also a plan.

5. Planning helps ensure we are prepared for emergencies that may arise during the course of the project.

6. A well thought-out plan gives us a clear idea about what is to be done every day, every week and every month.

7. Planning helps avoid duplication of labor.

8. If a plan is followed, every one will have a clear idea about his or her role.

Steps Involved in Planning

1. Set objectives

2. Assess you present situation

3. Survey your alternatives

4. Decide on the course of action

5. Provide for control

6. Implement the plan

A plan should always have specific time targets. At the same time, your plan should always be flexible so that you can incorporate any changes that might prove necessary once the project is put into action.