Skip the easy-to-achieve goals and aim higher

Setting goals that are easily achieved can defeat the purpose of goal setting. The desire to do better should be behind any goals that are set.

Top salespeople use goal setting to outline challenges for themselves that encourage them towards making a stronger sales impact. Challenging goals should: Present a challenge while still being achievable; unachievable goals can be discouraging rather than encouraging, and don't provide the same benefits that realistic goal setting can.

Be aligned with your personal and professional desires; the more involved you are with the goals you set, the more likely you are to achieve them. Reflect the core priorities of your organization; in this way your goal setting can benefit you and your employer and lead to recognition and other career benefits.