The major outcome of this step is the setting of goals for your business based on its vision and mission statement. A goal is a long-range aim for a specific period. It must be specific and realistic. Long-range goals set through strategic planning are translated into activities that will ensure reaching the goal through operational planning.

Here are a few tips for setting and achieving those goals:

1. Brainstorm – Start writing a list of things you’d like to accomplish. At first, you might think you don’t have any ideas, but soon they will come pouring out. You may even end up with too many goals that you could realistically accomplish. Prioritize and decide which are most important.

2. Write your goals down in one central place and record any changes you make to your goals – This way you can track your progress and will be become even better at setting goals for yourself in the future.

Read the rest of this entry »