Ten Goals Aspiring Entrepreneurs Can Achieve This Week



A main aspect of my routine everyday is making a daily goal. It’s how I keep myself accountable in reaching my long-term goals.

However, not everyone feels the need to do this (which is understandable). If you’re one of these types of people, I’ve included a list you can use to work toward your long-term entrepreneurial goals for this week (or—really—any week of your choosing).

1. Make a flexible plan

Start your week by making a plan of action. Plan out emails you need to send, phone calls you need to make and people you need to meet. Additionally, plan your main goal for the week. This could be anything from start working on that business model to researching more information about a potential brilliant idea.

2. Get off the couch / Get out of the workplace

As most things in life, this is easier said than done. If you can plan accordingly, you can make time to learn something new, meet new people, find a new restaurant. Getting outside of your comfort zone will help you to form more ideas for a business and will teach you more about yourself. The best inspiration comes from the world around you, so you have to get out there to find what you’re looking for.

3. Do something creative every day of the week


Remember that post I did on creativity? It’s one of the most important aspects of entrepreneurship, and the more creative you are, the more innovative you can be. Also, get creative with your creativity. Pick up new skills and try new ways to express your ideas. This can get your mind thinking in the right direction.

4. Do some self-reflection


Spend some time learning more about your thought process some time this week. Reflect on your interests and dislikes, and reflect on how much progress you’ve made so far. This can also be a great time to regroup and refocus on your goal for the week. Remind yourself why you want to be an entrepreneur and why you’ve made this decision in the first place. It’s a good way to help motivate yourself and get you back on track.

5. Talk to people about your ideas


Your network can help you pin down an idea, and they can even help you think of new ideas for your business. Outside perspectives are useful, and most importantly, they can become your customer market.

6. Think small


Don’t overwhelm yourself with so many big ideas that you become stagnant. Think of small accomplishments that you can feasibly do in a day. These small task will eventually add up to the bigger goal of the week. Make it a point to think small and think efficiency when you’re first starting out.

7. Get organized


Do what you can to organize your life and understand where you stand financially and emotionally. Organizing now can save you time later, and it can give you a better gauge of what your timeline is to start your business.

8. Get in touch with local entrepreneurs


Email, call or meet with local entrepreneurs who are doing something similar to what you want to do. Ask them about their business and its details. They have tons of information to share with you, and they could potentially serve as a mentor for you, which is definitely helpful for your future venture.

9. Recognize your strengths


Think about what your talents and how you can use them to build your business. Once you know what you’re good at, focus on making these skills better. Becoming an expert in a skill is never a bad idea, and your knowledge can help you build that idea and find investors and customers.

As for your weaknesses, you should understand what they are, but I wouldn’t advise going to great lengths to “improve” them. Sure, it’s great to have a working knowledge on how to do something, but don’t spend a ton of time perfecting a skill you don’t find enjoyable.


10. Force yourself to be realistic


You won’t be helping anyone if you lie or set unrealistic expectations. Be honest with what you can do and what you want. If you’re honest with yourself, you’ll build a stronger foundation for your business. Being honest is also a great way to gain people’s trust. Don’t exaggerate your situation and understand your limits and abilities.


Here are some helpful links to check out about setting goals for this week:

Entrepreneur

Forbes

Fast Company

TED Goal-Setting Talks