Dreams vs Goals - What is the Difference?

Let us begin by defining what is dream and what is a goal. According to an online dictionary, "A dream is a succession of images, thoughts, or emotions passing through the mind. A goal is a projected state of affairs that a person or a system plans or intends to achieve - a personal or organizational desired end-point in some sort of assumed development. Many people endeavor to reach goals within a finite time by setting deadlines." According to those definitions, a dream exists only in the mind while a goal exists in the mind but is planned and it has a determined deadline.   

The first step to create a goal is to have a clear vision of your dream. What is it that you want? A house, a car, lose weight, obtain a new job ? Whatever you dream is has to be clear, exactly how you want it, how much does it cost, where can you buy it. Once the 'what' is clear, then you can take the next step and determine the 'how' and 'when'. The best way to set up your goal is utilizing the S.M.A.R.T. system which is explained below.      

Specific = What is it that you want? Ex. A house, a car, lose weight, obtain a new job, etc.  

Measurable = How many do you need? Can you measure if you are on the correct path?  

Attainable = How much does it cost? Do you have the resources it takes to achieve your goal? If not, how are you going to obtain the 'resources'?  

Realistic = Can you really reach that goal? Will it take you a lifetime to achieve your goal?  

Timed = When will you reach your goal? Determine a deadline or completion date. Last but not least important step!

Many people go through life wishing that something exciting or new happens in their life. The only way to change the results of your life is to change the way you have been living it. By setting up your goals, you are setting up the road map to your success. During your journey there are going to be road blocks on the way, it is then that you have to remember to yourself the reason of your journey. Go back to your map and see 'specifically' why you are doing the things you are doing...What is your dream? What is your goal? What is your deadline? Reviewing this step will give you the strength you need to use the road blocks as stepping stones to continue walking towards your dreams.

You deserve to live the life you desire. Organize your thoughts, write down your dreams, set up your goals, review and revise them as you wish and most importantly...Don't ever let anyone steal a dream from you. Don't ever let anyone tell you can't do something. You are the owner of your mind and the owner of your destiny. Stop living an ordinary life...and begin living the EXTRAORDINARY life you deserve!!  

For more tips and to subscribe to receive our free newsletter visit http://www.coachmarfel.com/sq. Also, Step by Step Roadmap to Create Your Goals. Magda Y. Feliciano, is a life coach and an expert on topics related to goal setting, motivation and persistence. Her amazingly practical, proven prosperity program will change your life forever. Obtain a free copy of her FREE newsletter DARE TO SUCCEED!! by visiting http://www.coachmarfel.com/sq You can also find more articles in her blogs On Track with Marfel and the Spanish version Renuevate con Marfel. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Magda_Feliciano