When I first started working towards my dreams it was a real hit and miss affair, sometimes I got things done and sometimes I definitely didn't! So eventually I had to start by setting myself achievement targets, which is more popularly known as goal setting.

Goal setting for me was an absolute essential because I knew if I didn't write down what I wanted to achieve then chances are nothing would get done. I also knew I worked better with deadlines and if I didn't set a date for something to be completed then it probably would drag on for years!

I have put together five easy goal setting tips that helped me stay focused on goal setting and achievement.

1. Break Your Big Goals Down Into Smaller Pieces Trying to achieve your whole goal in one go will become overwhelming so break it down into smaller targets and celebrate each time you achieve one. Each small step brings you closer towards your bigger goal.

2. Write your goals down and read it every day It's important that you not only write down what your goal is, when you will achieve it and who will help you achieve it but it is also important that you read it every day. Not only does that help to keep you motivated but it also sends out a message to the universe about what you intend to achieve and you will find that doors magical open for you.

3. Get an accountability partner or keep yourself accountable The best way to keep yourself accountable to achieving a goal is to tell others about it. Publicly declaring your goals to those around you will make you more likely to stick to it. It will also help to get yourself one person that you use as a partner (and you can do the same for them). Together you tell each other what you will achieve that day/week and motivate each other to stay on track.

4. Be ready for change and flexible enough to let it happen Once you have set your goals it does not mean that they are set in stone and cannot be changed. If you allow yourself to be flexible and change your direction (even slightly) you may find your results are far better than you had even imagined. Circumstances change so be willing to bend a little.

5. Do whatever it takes to stay motivated How many times have you set goals and not achieved them? It happens and it's important that you come up with ways to keep you motivated. Remember what I have suggested above like reading them every day, celebrating each smaller goal achieved and getting yourself an accountability partner and come up with your own ways to stay motivated too.

Those are the five simple yet effective ways to achieve your goals that I recommend and as always I encourage you to create your own because that's far more powerful than anything handed to you.

If you are just starting out or if you have never been successful with goal setting I promise you that by simply following the five steps of breaking down your goals, writing them down and reading them every day, keeping yourself accountable, being willing to change and finding ways to stay motivated you will achieve them.