We often hear that setting priorities among many priorities is, well a priority. Often our clients say that they do not have enough time and have too many things to get done, all of them important. Here are some thoughts about setting priorities.

As I write this, I make a few assumptions:

  1. You set goals
  2. Those goals are updated on an ongoing basis
  3. Your goals are related to your overall vision of your life
  4. You communicate to others who have a part in your goals, their part

That said, we often hear about the difficulty in setting priorities to keep moving forward relative to your goals, your dreams and purpose.  Once you have outlined your goals, here are some ideas on ways to prioritize your actions:

  1. Those steps that will give you a great reward for little effort
  2. Those steps that will impact your customers
  3. Those steps that will impact key stake holders, especially if they are looking for results (that align with your plan) now.
  4. Those whose completion date is fast approaching
  5. Those steps or goals that impact more than one area of your life or more than one goal.
  6. Those steps that will hold up a larger project. If someone is waiting for you so they can complete their next part of a larger project, consider moving it up in your list.
  7. Steps towards goals you are passionate about
  8. Simple steps. Sometimes it can be highly beneficial to complete something, even a small step towards a very big goal. Don’t let any of your current goals go untouched for too long. Losing momentum and focus can kill a goal.
  9. Communication. Often there are some things that can get completed if you will communicate something to others. Where these simple steps exist, get them off the list.

Accomplishing goals can be very rewarding. Keep moving forward by setting priorities and not procrastinating. These simple ideas can help you along the way.