Define your goals with numbers. Goals that are approximate are subjective and very difficult to measure. Use numbers to give your goals greater meaning and make them easily measurable. As a quick example, make the goal "I will increase my salary by $5,000" by a certain date, rather than "I will increase my salary soon."
Exercise realism when defining your goals. While completing a triathlon one year after a heart attack may sound wonderful, it might not be incredibly realistic. You will be more motivated to take action toward goals that feel obtainable.
State your goals in the present tense. This means saying "I am" instead of "I will." While it may not be entirely accurate, it actuates parts of your brain that will motivate you to take action that leads to measurable results.
Write a list that defines where you currently are in relation to your goals. In this list include what the goal is, how you intend on getting there, any roadblocks you predict having to overcome and how you will deal with them. This will help measure your goals because you will be better equipped to recognize progress when you overcome an obstacle.
Create a journal for subjective goals. Consider it an idea book where you write down things you are doing well and things you would like to improve on. This will make you more focused and aware of your daily activities in relation to your goal.
Create a tick-sheet for objective goals. A tick-sheet can come in a variety of formats, from a calendar hanging on your wall to a spreadsheet on your computer. Make a list of daily, weekly and monthly activities that you need to accomplish in order to gain suitable progress towards your goals. As you complete each task, stroke a line through the item or mark a check next to it.
Review the history of your journal and tick-sheet at least once a week to adequately measure progress towards meeting goals. Stay consistent, because the more often you check your progress both objectively and subjectively, the faster you will achieve your goals.