The 8% Who Achieve Their Goals: How to Join Them
Did you know that 92% of people never achieve their goals? That leaves only 8% who successfully turn their dreams into reality. This statistic isn’t due to a lack of ambition but rather a lack of clear, actionable strategies. Without a structured plan, even the most determined individuals struggle to make progress.
The good news? With the right approach, you can bridge the gap between dreaming and achieving.
Here’s how to join the 8% who succeed
1. Define Your Goal with Absolute Clarity
The first step in achieving success is to define your goal with precision. Vague goals like “I want to be successful” or “I want to be healthier” lack direction and measurability. Instead, transform them into clear objectives, such as:
"I want to earn a leadership position in my company within the next 12 months."
"I will run a half marathon in six months."
"I want to increase my business revenue by 25% this year."
Write down your goal—studies show that those who do are 42% more likely to achieve it.
2. Break Down Your Goal into Manageable Steps
A major reason people fail is that their goals feel overwhelming. The solution? Break them into smaller, actionable steps that make progress more manageable.
For example, if your goal is a promotion, ask yourself:
What additional skills do I need?
Who can I network with?
What leadership opportunities can I take on?
Each answer provides a roadmap for success, turning your goal into an achievable series of steps.
3. Build a Support System
Success isn’t a solo journey. Surrounding yourself with the right mentors, peers, and accountability partners increases your chances of success.
Senior mentors provide wisdom, guidance, and access to a vast network.
Peer mentors offer real-time support and encouragement.
Junior mentors bring fresh ideas and help you see blind spots.
Strong support systems help you stay focused and accountable, significantly increasing your odds of success.
4. Utilize Practical Tools for Tracking Progress
To stay on course, use progress tracking systems like:
Kanban boards for visual goal tracking.
To-do lists to break tasks into daily actions.
Journals or apps to document progress and setbacks.
Tracking your progress ensures you stay motivated and make necessary adjustments along the way.
5. Evaluate and Adjust as Needed
No plan is foolproof. Regularly assess your progress and be willing to adapt. If a strategy isn’t working, pivot and find a better approach.
Flexibility and self-awareness are crucial for overcoming roadblocks and staying on track.
6. Celebrate Milestones Along the Way
Waiting until the finish line to celebrate is a mistake. Acknowledge small wins to stay motivated. Whether it's completing a key project, learning a new skill, or reaching a mini-milestone, these moments of success reinforce your progress and build confidence.
7. Patience + Persistence = Success
Olympic rower Michiel Bartman, a three-time medalist, trained with a Nike poster on his wall that read: "The limit of human endurance. If you find it, call us."
The takeaway? Success is a marathon, not a sprint.
Commit to your goal even when progress feels slow. The ability to persist through obstacles separates achievers from those who give up.
The Key to Joining the 8%
The difference between those who achieve their goals and those who don’t often comes down to action.
Set clear and measurable goals.
Create a structured plan with actionable steps.
Surround yourself with a supportive network.
Track your progress and adjust as needed.
Stay patient and persistent.
Success isn’t reserved for a select few—it’s available to anyone willing to commit, adapt, and take consistent action.
Are You Ready to Achieve Your Goals?
If you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure where to start, Walk With Me Counseling Center in Chicago, Illinois, is here to help.
We understand that stress, anxiety, and self-doubt can hold you back from reaching your full potential. Our licensed therapists provide virtual therapy sessions across Illinois, offering guidance and support tailored to your unique challenges.
Take the first step toward success today!
Complete our Intake Form and start your journey toward achieving your goals with confidence.
