Hello Fellow Investors! The last couple of months have been a bit crazy for me. Mostly because the holidays are around and I’ve been with family and friends. Also because I’m taking on a lot more short sales and moving forward with the new construction project I’m working. But as this year is head to a close, I hope that you all have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New! I’m not big on new year’s resolutions but I am big on setting goals, no matter what stage you are in, in life. If you have never set goals for yourself, why not try? There are many types of goals you may want to set, such as; Spiritual Goals, Cultural Goals; Social Economical Goals, Financial & Career Goals; Physical & Health Goals; and/or Mental & Educational Goals. There is so much to reach for in the course of a life time, let’s try to pace ourselves. Not to get “churchy” on you but my pastor gave a great sermon on goals. I’ll attempt to share it with you.

First, we want to define why it is important to set goals. My pastor gives 5 distinct reasons:

1. Goals set direction in your life & family
2. Goals bring balance to your life
3. Goals set your capabilities: It sobers you to where you are in life today (we all have different starting points)
4. Goals focuses your skills: It channels your energy and resources toward a target
5. Goals harness your energy and resources

As we began to realize the benefit of setting goals, we want to make sure they are not some random “to do” list. We are not just reaching for stars but actual, obtainable things. My Pastor went on to describe 3 Principles to win the goal.

Three Principles in Achieving Your Goals

1. PREPARATION – Get rid of those things that will hinder/hold you back from reaching your goals. You must fully prepare yourself. It will take discipline and action on your part. Evaluate if you really want to obtain the goal (is it of extrinsic or internal value to you?). My Pastor used an acronym to describe adequate preparation for your goal: He called them SMART goals!
   • Specific – Be very specific on the goal you are shooting for
   • Measurable- Make sure you can determine if you’ve reached your goal
   • Achievable- Is this goal reachable?
   • Realistic – Can this goal be obtained by you or is it a farfetched dream?
   • Timely- Set a time table for your goal
2. PARTICIPATION- People play a role in your life and they are there for encouragement. If you have love ones (family or friends) around you, let them help to encourage you in obtaining your goals. Again, remember that those that hinder you should be left behind. Align yourself with people of like mindset or people who have already achieved the goals you are seeking to achieve.
3. PLANNING – Once you have accomplished a previous goal, continue to set new goals. Always have something to reach for to prevent yourself from falling behind. Remember you’re not asked to be perfect or never to fail but if you set SMART goals and work your way through them, you will continue to progress. Have goals for every avenue of your life.

If real estate investing is one of your goals that you were not able to achieve in 2008, don’t give up. Try setting SMART goals to get you started. Prepare for your goals and set a plan in action to execute your goals. Set yourself up for success, start small and work yourself up to the big goals. Remember that it is never too late to reach what you truly desire in your heart. Also remember to have balance in your life. Don’t let your career or money rule over you or make you feel like a failure. Set goals to be well rounded in all facets of life. Your character defines you, not how much money you make or how much money you have. I hope the new year brings new beginnings for you and your family!

Happy Real Estate Investing!